Stop and Search

The force has a commitment to becoming more open and transparent. Part of this is being better at sharing and engaging on some of the powers that our police officers use to keep people safe, and that includes Stop and Search.

We believe that greater scrutiny will further ensure that our use of these is right and proper.

What are we searching for?

Our key focus in quarter four, from January to March 2024, has included targeting those involved in drug misuse, preventing harm from weapon enabled offences and those who steal. Drug use and shoplifting continue to be the most frequently raised crime concerns in Fareham.

An arrest was made in 10 per cent of the searches conducted, with 30 per cent resulting in the item we were looking for being found.

We continue to utilise proportionate  and appropriate stop and search powers, to keep people safe, prevent crime and to build trust and maintain public confidence.

Is our use of Stop and Search in Fareham proportionate?

Our data shows a black person is 6.2 times more likely to be searched in Fareham compared to a white person, with a mixed race person 1.6 times more likely.

The majority of our searches were conducted on white people, making up 85 per cent, with three black people stopped and searched, one Asian person and two people of mixed heritage.

Our Independent Advisory Group (IAG) reviews and challenges policing practises in a constructive way, including our use of Stop and Search. This helps us improve our service to the public.  Internally, we also regularly scrutinise our use of police powers so we learn and improve.

Where can I find more information about Stop & Search in Fareham?

You can see more about the numbers by looking at the infographic, below. We have also provided the same data in a different format if that is easier for you.

Where can I find data from previous quarters for Fareham?

If you want to view data from previous quarters for the Fareham district, you can find those here.