CILEx calls for Stop and Search transparency

26 September 2013

The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx), the professional association for vocationally trained lawyers, has called for more transparency in the use of stop and search powers in order to rebuild trust in the police.

Responding to the Home Office consultation on police powers of stop and search, CILEx has said data should be made public on how often a stop and search resulted in a prosecution, and not just an arrest.

The response from CILEx, which represents Chartered Legal Executive Lawyers, Paralegals, and Associate Prosecutors working for the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “For decades the inappropriate use of these powers, both real and perceived, has tarnished the relationship between the police and the public they serve, and in doing so has brought into question the very existence of these powers.”

“Figures in England and Wales show that of the 1.2 million stop and searches carried out, just nine per cent resulted in an arrest. The figures do not show, however, how many of those arrested were subsequently charged or found guilty. CILEx seeks clarification as to whether data is available to indicate how many of those arrested are subsequently charged and found or pleaded guilty.”

“It is right that police officers, as agents of the state, should explain their motives and reasons for stop and search powers being used. It increases public confidence and respect in the police.”

Read the full response.

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