New stop and search 
A new Code of Practice for Stop and Search comes in to force in Scotland at midnight on Thursday May 11.
The introduction of the Code of Practice is in response to recommendations made by Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary (Scotland), the Scottish Police Authority and the Scottish Institute of Policing Research and introduces a requirement for police officers to use statutory powers of search when searching a person.
The Code also provides police officers with clear guidance on conducting, recording and monitoring the use of stop and search and places individuals’ rights at the centre of any decision to stop and search a person.
Chief Superintendent Paul Main, Divisional Commander for Ayrshire Division said; “I welcome the introduction of the Stop and Search Code of Practice and I am confident that officers in Ayrshire will continue to use their powers to keep the people of Ayrshire safe. We have in effect been working to the code of practice for some time.
“Violent crime continues to fall in Ayrshire and our focus on tackling the underlying causes which includes and arresting those responsible will continue, using our powers to stop and search the right
people will continue.”
For more information on the new Stop and Search Code of Practice, visit our website; www.scotland.police.uk