NCJ Number
182383
Date Published
December 1999
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This issue reviews the law, policies, and procedures on strip-searching by Queensland police (Australia) and includes a questionnaire for individuals and organizations to provide their comments on the issues raised as well as any other relevant issues that will assist in preparing the final report to Parliament in the first half of 2000.
Abstract
The power of Queensland police officers to conduct strip-searches has become a matter of public interest in recent months, following media allegations of inappropriate strip-searches conducted at some Queensland watchhouses. Because most strip-searches by police apparently are conducted at watchhouses and police stations, this review focuses on the policies and procedures adopted at these locations. This review identifies issues that relate to strip-searches that are of concern to police officers, those people who have been the subject of strip-searches, and the general public. It documents the reasons for strip-searches and determines the level of compliance with legislative and other requirements imposed on Queensland police officers in relation to strip-searches. Further, it devises strategies for addressing identified problems that relate to strip-searches by Queensland officers. Primary sources of data are an analysis of relevant complaints files, the preliminary results of the 1999 Defendants Survey, a survey of strip-search practices at 10 Queensland watchhouses, and discussions with watchhouse managers and staff. 35 notes, 7 references, and appended list of relevant legislative provisions