Police Powers and the Individual

• NCJ Number: 106826
• Author(s): S A Robilliard; J McEwan
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 271 pages
• Sale Source: Basil Blackwell, Inc.
• Publication Type: Best Practice/State-of-the-Art Review
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This book examines the issue of police powers in the United Kingdom, comparing actual police practice with legal responsibilities and constraints.

Abstract

Following an overview of the philosophical basis of policing in a democratic society, the book outlines general police powers in investigating and preventing crime. Among the investigative areas considered are photographing suspects and witnesses, surveillance devices, storing information, and telephone tapping. Powers relating to breach of the peace and the police officer's general duty to investigate are explored. The book provides detailed descriptions of laws governing search and seizure, arrest, handling the suspect at the police station, and gathering evidence for the prosecution. Measures which individuals may take to control police behavior are discussed, with attention to the Police Complaints Authority, disciplinary offenses, and civil liability. This section concludes that, despite reforms of the 1984 Police and Criminal Evidence Act, the complaints system is remote from the wronged individual and does not directly benefit him or her. While there is considerable public support for the police, proposed changes in the law on public order will be vital in determining whether that support is retained. A critique of the Public Order Bill of 1985 is appended. Tables of statutes, table of cases, and index.