Stop and search
Stop and search is a policing power used by police officers to stop and search members of the public who are suspected to be carrying stolen or prohibited articles or offensive weapons.
Essex Police has a clear vision for stop and search - to gain the trust and confidence of the community in its use as a tactic for keeping everyone safe.
Stop and search is a vital tactic in combating crime, disrupting offenders, gathering intelligence and avoiding the unnecessary detention of individuals.
Around one in 10 of Essex Police stop and searches result in an arrest. We have a duty to exercise our power with consideration, being careful not to undermine public trust and confidence.
Since 2019 the Essex Police Performance and Scrutiny reports for stop and search can be found using the below links.
Performance and Resources Scrutiny Board (Policing and Crime)
The purpose of the Board is to enable the PFCC to review the efficiency and effectiveness of the force against performance objectives set out in the police and crime plan. It is the forum whereby the PFCC is able to ensure budgeted resources are closely aligned with policing priorities.
The Board will enable the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to maintain an oversight of the totality of policing and hold the Chief Constable to account for the delivery of operational policing and the policing aspects of the Police and Crime plan.