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?

One of our identified areas of concern at present in the Havant district is the possession and supply of drugs, including country drug line presence. We use the intelligence available to us to utilise our stop and search powers in response to this.

While we have seen a reduction in the number of searches conducted, there has still been a focus on searches relating to drugs and those for offensive weapons, linked to youth knife violence.

Is our use of Stop and Search in Havant proportionate?

In quarter four of 2023/24, the data shows a black person is no more likely to be stopped than a white person in the district.

Searches our scrutinised by Sergeants and Inspectors and BWV is dip sampled to identify learning and best practice. Our Independent Advisory Group also review and provides feedback.

Where can I find more information about Stop and Search in Havant?

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 previous data for the Havant district?

If you want to take a look at previous quarterly data for the Havant district, then you can find that here.