Search wand limitations exposed

Strip searches should be carried out to detect hidden razor blades in custody as wand-style metal detectors are not sensitive enough.

Following an investigation into an incident where a man was able to smuggle a razor blade into custody at Hereford Police station which he later used to self-harm, guidance for the use of strip searches has been circulated.

Custody inspectors were told that a strip search must be conducted if during the risk assessment process, a history of self-harm is disclosed, if there is any suggestion that self-harm is likely due to detainee responses or according to which type of offence the detainee has been arrested for.

The Hereford man had warning markers against him for previous attempts at self-harm and mental health. He had been found cutting his wrists outside a supermarket and was taken into custody for his own protection.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission said officers had acted correctly but that guidance should be circulated to make sure custody officers are aware of the limitations of search wands.