Policing.uk
Stop and search
- PACE powers
A power allowing a constable in a public place to stop and search a person or vehicle for stolen articles or articles made or adapted for use in connection with certain offences. The principal power is section 1 of PACE, but additional powers exist under section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, and the Firearms Act 1968, among others.
In practice
Each power has its own threshold. Section 1 PACE requires reasonable grounds in relation to the individual. Section 60 is a wide-area power authorised by an inspector or above based on anticipated violence. Officers must record the search on a search record form and the person is entitled to a copy.
Last updated 12 October 2026