Recommendation - Lancashire Constabulary, August 2022
We identified organisational learning in respect of search procedures in custody following a review of a police investigation. We also identified an opportunity to issue a national recommendation to the National Police Chiefs' Council.
IOPC reference
Recommendations
The IOPC recommends that Lancashire Constabulary should update their custody policies and procedures to ensure that metal detectors are used as part of all searches when booking detainees into custody (provided it is safe to do so). Consideration should also be given to:
- Ensuring that training provided to custody staff is amended to take into account any changes in custody policies and procedures regarding the use of metal detectors as part of detainee searches.
- Informing custody staff of any changes to policies and procedures regarding the use of metal detectors as part of detainee searches.
- Highlighting to custody staff that metal detectors complement and do not replace the need for a thorough search by custody staff.
This follows an IOPC review of a Death and Serious Injury (DSI) local investigation where a metal detector search did not take place on a detainee, meaning a metallic spoon they secreted was not detected. Consequently, the detainee used this to consume an illicit drug while detained and suffered an opioid overdose
Lancashire Constabulary does not currently have a have a policy or procedure regarding the use of metal detectors in custody. Although the outcome of the local investigation recommended training for custody staff about this matter, a written policy would be of better use to ensure consistency going forward.
Do you accept the recommendation?
Yes
Accepted action:
Lancashire Constabulary accepts this recommendation.
The Constabulary currently follows the College of Policing’s APP with regards to the searching of detainees which states:
‘Where detainees have been searched on arrest, they should not be left unsupervised until they have been presented to the custody officer, who will decide whether or not a further search is necessary.
Such decisions, and any searches arising from them, must comply with PACE and the codes of practice.
The search, the extent of the search and the subsequent retention of any article that the detainee has with them, depend on the decision made by the custody officer.’
Following the recommendation by the IOPC with regards to the use of metal detectors (wands) during searching of detainees, Lancashire Constabulary implemented the ‘Transportation of Detainees’ Policy’.
This policy includes the following:
‘Officers should utilise a handheld metal detector (AKA a wand) to complement a search prior to placing a d/p in a van where one is available and it is safe to use one.’
The Constabulary’s Custody Training Package has been updated to include the learning identified, particularly the use of metal detectors on all searches where appropriate.
An educational briefing has been circulated to all Custody staff with regards to the use of metal detectors.
This recommendation is being captured and tracked through the Organisational Learning Board, chaired by the Deputy Chief Constable. This will provide corporate memory, monitor progress and trigger an evaluation at a later date.