Police Powers of Stop and Search in England: A Critical Appraisal On The Police Powers of Stop And Search And Its Relationship With Human Rights

The police powers of stop and search is an important investigative tool utilised for the purposes of crime detection and prevention in relation to individuals suspected of an offence at a specific time. The aim of this book is to analyse how the use of stop and search powers affects an individuals’ right to freedom from discrimination (article 14) and the right to privacy (article 8) under the European Convention on Human Rights. In analysing the exercise of these powers, the author makes use of government statistics and reports to argue that the use such powers against ethnic minority groups is disproportionate and this is an indication of unlawful discrimination. The author also suggests that the absence of a ‘reasonable suspicion’ requirement in the use of these powers give individual police officers a wide discretion, which can arguably result in the unjustified interference with the right to privacy. The conclusions and recommendations provided will help reduce or eradicate the issues of human rights violation in the exercise of stop and search powers in England.

Mercy Okolo studied Law at the University of Northampton, United Kingdom, The author also acquired a Masters in Law in Criminal Justice, Human Rights and International Law from the University of Birmingham. The author is currently a legal research analyst and also provides pro bono services on human rights cases.