Police Search Sparks Outrage After 15-Year-Old Girl Searched at School
On Thursday, 3 December 2020, police were called to a school after staff suspected a 15-year-old girl of carrying cannabis. The girl reportedly smelled strongly of cannabis, sparking concern among school staff.
Search Details and Controversy
The girl’s bag and outer clothing had already been searched by school staff before police arrived—no drugs were found. Two female officers then conducted a further search in the school’s medical room under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act.
- No drugs were discovered during the police search.
- No force was used at any point.
- Critically, the search was carried out without an appropriate adult present.
Official Apology and Investigation Underway
A Local Child Safeguarding Practice Review published on 14 March condemned the incident, stating it “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.”
“We have reminded officers about proper procedures for school searches and welcome the safeguarding review.”
“The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is still investigating, so no further comment is appropriate at this stage.”
What Happens Next?
The girl’s family were informed about how to file a complaint against the Metropolitan Police. A formal complaint was lodged and passed to the IOPC in May 2021 for a full investigation.
This case has fuelled fresh scrutiny of police procedures in schools and raised serious questions about safeguarding vulnerable children.
