Stop Search data Q1 2024-25

Stop and searches by NPT location

The above table gives a visual representation of the volume of stop and searches recorded across the Wiltshire Police force area. The table shows that Swindon NPT recorded the largest proportion of stop and searches, followed by Salisbury NPT.

For each recorded stop and search, there is the option to have multiple reasons for why the Stop Search was conducted. This results in a larger volume of recorded search reasons compared to the total volume of Stop and Searches.

As part of a stop and search, we must define whether any object was found as part of that search.

It should be noted that one stop and search can have multiple outcomes.

Of the 398 stop and searches recorded, 51.6% (n.202) were to stop a person under the age of 25.

76.9% (306) of 398 stop and searches recorded during this fiscal quarter were recorded as a search of person only.

5 of the stop and searches (1.3%) cases were a full strip search, which results in the exposure of intimate body parts. (4 identified as male & 1 as female). All strip searches are conducted at a police station whilst following the relevant rules and regulations. 20.0% (1) of these stop and searches resulted in an intended object of search being found.

Note: Disproportionality data uses Self Defined Ethnicity if stated.

Disproportionality refers to a situation in which racial or ethnic groups are represented at a higher proportion than other racial or ethnic groups. It looks at the relative ratios of those people stop and searched as a proportion of the resident population in the specified area.

Wiltshire population data is based on the 2021 Census.

During this fiscal quarter, individuals belonging to an ethnic minority group were 2.40 times more likely to be stopped than those of a white ethnicity.

We are required by home office rules to report disproportionality using figures based on per 1,000 population.

Wiltshire Police have carried out a comprehensive analysis of this data. We have examined the number of searches conducted when compared against the ethnicity of the subject. When we analyse the number of searches conducted by ethnicity of the subject, we observe that the numbers are low. Because of this, small changes in the numbers searched can influence how this data is presented.The issue of disproportionality within stop and search is key area of focus and scrutiny within Wiltshire Police. We are committed to ensuring that our stop and search practices are fair and transparent.

We have a team who regularly review the statistics to identify any issues that may require our specific and targeted action. We remain dedicated to addressing any concerns promptly and effectively.