National Investigators Exam (NIE) Practice Exam

Under S18 of PACE, when can police enter and search a property?

1. When they have an anonymous tip-off

2. After making an arrest

3. During routine patrols

4. When obtaining consent from the owner

The correct answer is: After making an arrest

The correct choice is indeed related to the conditions under which police can enter and search a property, particularly in the context of Section 18 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE). This section allows officers to conduct a search without a warrant in specific situations, especially after making an arrest. The rationale here is that if someone is arrested, the police may need to search the premises tied to that suspect to secure evidence or prevent the destruction of evidence related to the offense for which the arrest was made. In contrast, entering a property based on an anonymous tip-off does not provide sufficient grounds for an immediate search under PACE, as it lacks the necessary evidence or confirmation. Similarly, conducting searches during routine patrols does not meet the legal criteria established by PACE, as there must be specific justification linked to an arrest or other legal permission. Lastly, obtaining consent from the property owner is a valid method for law enforcement to enter, but it is not specifically tied to the powers granted under Section 18 of PACE; this method relies on the voluntary agreement of the owner, rather than circumstances defined in PACE related to arrest situations. This understanding highlights the importance of the legal framework governing searches by police and emphasizes the conditions established by PACE for lawful