o
To place his or her right foot in front of the suspect's right foot, making ankle-to-ankle contact. If
searching from the left side, the searcher places his or her left foot in front of the suspect's left foot
making ankle-to-ankle contact.
While conducting the wall search, MP must be alert. They have to prevent the suspect from attempting to disarm
or injure them. During the search they should--
o
Remove the suspect's headgear--search the area beneath the sweatband and seams. Place the headgear
on the ground near the assistant to be used as a container for certain items taken from the suspect.
o
Examine the suspect's hair, ears, hands, arms, right side of the body, and right leg.
o
Crush all clothing (not just pat the clothing).
o
Check the armpits, back, waist, crotch, legs, and tops of boots or shoes carefully.
If the searcher finds weapons or anything that could be used as a weapon, he or she places it in the headgear on
the ground. Anything that is not a weapon or evidence can be left in the suspect's pockets.
Ideally, the MP have the suspect talk during the search. That will help determine if the suspect has anything in his
or her mouth.
If there is more than one suspect to search, MP use the same wall to conduct the searches. Suspects are spread out
and cannot reach one another. The assistant should take a position a few paces to the rear of the line. Again, the
searcher never goes between the assistant and any suspect.
The next section will discuss the techniques necessary for searching members of the opposite sex.
Searching Members of the Opposite Sex
Male MP may search the coat, bags, and parcels of a female suspect. Beyond that, male MP should not search
female suspects. Female MP should not search male suspects. The search must wait until a member of the same
sex is available to do the search.
STRIP SEARCH
Since a search of someone's naked body is sensitive in nature, the strip search can be conducted only at the MP
station or other suitable location. All people who are going to be confined should be strip searched.
After apprehension, strip searches are conducted when small items, drugs, or concealed weapons are expected.
1-21
MP2002
Previous Page
