Cumbria Constabulary has become more accountable to the public following the introduction of new rights for anyone who is stopped by the police.
Following the introduction of new procedures on 1 April 2005 anyone who is stopped by a Police Officer, Special Constable or Community Support Officer and is asked to account for themselves is entitled to ask for a record of the reason why they have been stopped.
This is a national change in procedure brought about as a result of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry in 1999. Recommendation 61 of the Stephen Lawrence Report said that anyone stopped by the police should be given a written explanation of the reason why they have been searched. The aim is to make the police more accountable to the public and the proceedings more transparent. before 1 April it was only if the police stopped and searched someone that they had to give a written record of the reasons why.
Stop and account procedures are an effective way of preventing and detecting crimes, whilst enhancing public confidence and reassurance.
For an information leaflet either contact the Police Authority by e-mail on policeauthority@cumbria.police.uk or telephone 01768 217734.
For a copy of the Association of Police Authorities/Home Office/Criminal Justice Service "Stop and Search Manual" click here, for leaflets with further information please click here.