Operational

Procedures

Step-by-step quick references for the procedures that have to be done correctly — for the safety of the public, for your own welfare, and for the case file.

Stop & Search

GO-WISELY — Before any stop & search

The mandatory information you MUST give before searching a person or vehicle under PACE Code A. Failing to give it can render the search unlawful.

8 steps

Arrest

Lawful Arrest — Step by Step

The sequence to follow when arresting under PACE s.24. Get any element wrong and the arrest may be unlawful.

7 steps

The Police Caution — Wording, When & Why

The standard PACE Code C / Code G caution. Must be given on arrest, before any questioning about an offence, and on charge. Wrong words or wrong moment can render admissions inadmissible at court.

10 steps

Special Warnings — CJPOA 1994 ss.36 & 37

Separate from the standard caution. Used in interview when a suspect fails or refuses to account for an object/substance/mark on them, or for their presence at a place at/around the time of the offence. Without a special warning, no adverse inference can be drawn under s.36 / s.37.

9 steps

Code G — Arrest Necessity Decision Aid

PACE Code G requires both reasonable grounds to suspect AND a necessity to arrest. Walk through the six necessity criteria — record which one(s) applied and why.

9 steps

Use of Force

Use of Force — Legal Framework

Force must always be necessary, reasonable and proportionate. Two main statutory provisions plus common law self-defence.

4 steps

BTP

BTP Jurisdiction — On & Off the Network

Quick reference for British Transport Police officers on where powers apply and how to handle off-network incidents.

4 steps

Detention

The PACE Detention Clock

Maximum periods a suspect can be detained without charge under PACE Part IV. Get this wrong and detention becomes unlawful.

6 steps

Statements

Writing an MG11 Witness Statement

Best practice for taking a witness statement that will stand up at court.

6 steps

Road Traffic

MGDD — Drink-Drive Station Procedure

The evidential breath/blood/urine procedure at the station after a positive roadside test or s.4 unfit arrest. Run the MGDD/A booklet — any deviation can collapse the case at court.

7 steps

DrugWipe — Roadside Drug Screen Workflow

Preliminary drug test under s.6C RTA 1988 using an approved oral fluid device (DrugWipe 5S / 6S) for cannabis (THC) and cocaine. Arrest, station evidential blood, charge under s.5A.

6 steps

Investigation

Serious Sexual Offence — First Response & Scene Preservation

First-officer-on-scene actions for a reported rape or serious sexual assault. Priorities: victim, evidence, suspect — and an early SOIT / SARC referral.

7 steps