NCJ Number
137119
Date Published
1991
Length
86 pages
Annotation
Issues are raised concerning the need for and usefulness of existing police powers and the need for additional police powers in Queensland.
Abstract
Issues covered include consolidation of police powers; power to demand name and address; move-on power; voluntary attendance; power of arrest; post-arrest power of detention; search of persons, vehicles, and taking of samples; identification procedures; search warrants; electronic surveillance; other investigative techniques; and the need for a comprehensive review. Several matters need to be considered relative to each of the powers discussed. These include a demonstrated need for the use of the power, seriousness of the crime in relation to justification of the use of the power, and the stage of investigative process at which the power is available. Official authorization of the use of power, procedures and safeguards, and consequences of a failure to comply with the procedures set down also need to be examined. However, in the analysis of the need for more police powers, considerations should be given not only to the use of such powers to enhance the investigation and prosecution of crime, but also to the social values that must form part of the picture.