The Police Officer who stops and searches you has to complete a record of the search electronically. After the search you should be given a card a card with your unique reference number and details of how to obtain a copy of the search record on it. You can get a copy of the record for up to 12 months after the stop and search.
Archive
What information will be included in a search record?
The record of a search must always include the following information:
• Your name, or (if it is withheld) a description of you;
• When a vehicle is searched, its registration number;
• The identity of the officer making the search;
• The date, time, and place that you were first detained;
• The date, time and place you were searched (if different from (iii);
• The purpose of the search;
• The grounds for making the search
• The outcome (i.e. arrest, no further action)
• A note of any injury or damage to property resulting from the search
Do the Police have to keep a record of the search? Can I ask for a copy?
The Police must complete a record of the search electronically. You should receive a card after the search with a unique reference number and details of how to get a copy of the search record after the search has been completed.
What can happen after a search?
• No further action
• You may be arrested
• The police can make a report to the Public Prosecution Service
• Police may issue a penalty notice or Disorder
Can I leave after a search?
In the absence of any other lawful power to detain, you are free to leave at will and you must be told this.