Practice Advice On Terrorism Stop & Search

Mon, 12 January 2009 Courtesy of: NPIA

Chief Constable Craig Mackey, ACPO Race and Diversity Business Area writes in the forward to the advice;

"!This practice advice focuses on the use of stop and search powers under the Terrorism Act 2000. It replaces ACPO (2007) Practice Advice on Stop and Search in Relation to the Terrorism Act and ACPO (2006) Practice Advice on Stop and Search, Section 4.

The powers of stop and search under the Terrorism Act are intended for use in exceptional circumstances, and their operational use should be seen in the context of the wider CONTEST strategy. The powers are an important part of tackling terrorism.

They create a hostile environment for terrorists to operate in and can help to deter, disrupt and detect terrorist activity. Used correctly, stop and search is a powerful tool that can help protect all of our communities from terrorism. Its use can, however, create significant problems and perceptions within the community.

The advice provides clear guidance on the rationale for the use of stop and search, the importance of briefing and tasking, and the vital role of community engagement. It also highlights a number of examples of good practice that are available for all forces to use.

The powers covered by this advice are at their most effective when they have the support and understanding of the community, and are used in a  proportionate way by appropriately trained and well- briefed officers."

The practice advice is available in pdf format by clicking HERE.