Police only have the power to stop someone if they have reasonable grounds that you have committed a crime. A 'stop' occurs when an officer stops and asks you questions, but this is not an official stop and search and you can leave at any moment. If you try to resist the search, an officer can use 'reasonable force' and can also arrest you. During a search, an officer can only ask you to remove outer clothing when in public, such as a jacket, coat or gloves. Police must fill out a form giving the reasons for a stop and search and give you a copy unless it is not possible.

Source: The Nation October 01, 2021 07:52 UTC