the police can do whatever they want now?

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If you’re stopped and searched by the police

The police can stop and search you if they have a ‘reasonable suspicion’ that you’re in possession of a controlled drug. ‘Reasonable suspicion’ could include you acting suspiciously or fitting the description of a criminal seen in the area.

On the street the police can ask to check or remove your coat or gloves or show the contents of your bag. They should do a more thorough search out of public view, not on the street. If the police think you have drugs on you they can take you to the police station for a more intimate search without needing to arrest you.

If nothing is found on you, you can go but details of the search are recorded.

You don’t have to give your name, address or date of birth unless you’re caught with drugs or are being reported for an offence. If you are carrying anything illegal you can be arrested. 

Police can search your vehicle even if you’re not there but they must leave a notice saying what they’ve done.

More information, including how to make a complaint, is on this page of the Your Rights website.