NCJ Number
158657
Date Published
1995
Length
43 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses crime measurement and investigative procedures conducted by the British police.
Abstract
In discussing the image of police as "crimefighters," the author notes that both the police and public share this narrow philosophy of policing that views other policing responsibilities as of low priority or irrelevant to policing. Two sections of the chapter consider crime measurement. Crime statistics are identified as only those crimes known to the police; whereas, an accurate measurement of crime should include crimes not reported to the police. One section of the chapter addresses the crime pattern in England and Wales; despite the fluctuations in the volume of crime, property crimes remain predominant. Another section contrasts reactive and proactive police crimefighting. An outline of police powers of investigation prior to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act of 1984 (PACE) focuses on arrest, search of persons and premises, and detention and interrogation. This is followed by a review of the reforms mandated in PACE. An overview of police powers after PACE addresses stop and search, road blocks, suspect searches, the searching of premises for evidence, the powers of arrest, the powers of detention, and interrogation, as well as confessions as evidence. A discussion of the rights of arrestees encompasses the right to silence, access to legal advice, interviews outside and inside the police station, inadmissible statement followed by a proper interview, and entrapment and surveillance. The chapter concludes with an examination of issues related to identification evidence. 4 tables and 63 footnotes