NCJ Number
128437
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 64 Issue: 1 Dated: (January/March 1991) Pages: 68-70
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The position of photographing persons accused of offenses of drinking and driving in Great Britain is discussed.
Abstract
There is widespread confusion among police officers as to whether persons accused of offenses of drinking and driving may be photographed. This stems from confusion of two distinct categories of offenses: "recordable offenses" and "offenses reportable to the National Identification Bureau (NIB)." The Code of Practice D4 regulates the taking of photographs by police of persons arrested. No infringement of any legal right is involved so there was considered no need to include statutory authority to take photographs. Forces should issue instructions enjoining that photographs be taken of arrested persons charged with or reported for offenses of drinking and driving other than refusing a screening specimen. Since NIB will not process such records it should be emphasized that fingerprints should not be taken. Arrangements also need to be made for the retention and tracing of the photograph. The obvious and sensible option is that it should go with the Collator's Card. A copy should be put in any Wanted/Missing docket. These actions would constitute desirable, effective, and lawful police practice.