Police Search of 15-Year-Old at School Sparks Safeguarding Outcry
Police were called to a school on Thursday, 3 December 2020, after staff grew concerned when a 15-year-old girl smelled heavily of cannabis. Suspecting she might be carrying drugs, staff had already searched her bag and clothing, finding nothing.
Officers Search Girl Alone, No Drugs Found
Two female officers conducted a more thorough search of the girl in the school’s medical room under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act. No force was used, and no drugs were discovered. However, the search took place without an appropriate adult present, raising serious safeguarding concerns.
Met Police Issue Apology Following Safeguarding Review
A Local Child Safeguarding Practice Review published on Monday, 14 March, condemned the search as an incident that “should never have happened.” Detective Superintendent Dan Rutland of the Met’s Central East Command said:
“It is truly regrettable and on behalf of the Met Police I would like to apologise to the child concerned, her family, and the wider community.”
He added that officers were reminded about correct procedures in school searches. The Met welcomed the review and stressed that the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is still investigating.
Complaint Filed, IOPC Investigation Underway
The girl’s family received information on how to file a complaint against the Met. They lodged a formal complaint, which was passed to the IOPC in May 2021 for an independent probe.
