Being stopped by the police can bring on a lot of anxieties for anyone. It can be a scary experience if the police take an interest and it could even make you feel like you were involved in a crime.
Don’t worry though! If you’ve not got anything to hide then there is no reason to feel anxious.
Everyday police officers stop and talk to the public as part of their ongoing investigations and regular duties.
Are They Allowed to Search Me?
If police officers have a reason to believe that you have an illegal item in your possession then they can perform what is called a stop and search. It’s important to mention that officers must have a specific reason to carry out a search. An officer cannot search you without a specific reason even with your consent, you can view the list of reasons that a police officer can use to perform a stop and search here.
If a police officer searches you they can only search:
- Your vehicle.
- You and any clothing you’re carrying or wearing.
- Anything else you are carrying, such as a bag or wallet.
Police officers should act with integrity at all times and treat you with fairness and respect. You should never be stopped or searched because of your age, sex, ethnic background or religion.
Take a look at this short animation made with other young people to give a perspective on why a police officer might consider searching someone.
Want to see the other perspective? Find it here.
And What Happens After the Search, Am I Free To Go?
If the search has been completed an nothing incriminating has been found then you are free to go. The police officers should also give you a receipt for the search, this will contain information about your rights and how you can access your stop and search record.
If you are worried about any personal information that was collected during your talk with the police officers then you can be assured it will be only be used for police purposes. Any information you provided will be destroyed after three years.
Do you have any more questions about interacting with the police? Check our page with Police Scotland to find our more.