Standard 5.9

Standard statement

The agency shall have a written directive which requires the transporting officer to search the detainee before being transported.

Discussion

The transporting officer is legally responsible for the safety and custody of the detainee being transported. It must be assumed that the detainee may have had an opportunity to obtain contraband or a weapon prior to the time he or she is accepted for transport by the officer. It should never be assumed by the officer that someone else has searched the detainee. Detainees should be searched each time they come into the transporting officer's custody, including transport to and from court appearances. The directive should clearly define agency policy on the types of searches that may be conducted, describe when and where they may be conducted, and provide strict procedures on how and by whom each type of authorized search may be performed. Exceptions, if allowed, should be listed. If conducted, strict guidelines on "strip" searches and/or "body cavity" searches should be established and included in this directive.

The discussion clarifies intent and is not a binding part of the standard. For assessment purposes you are required to comply only with the standard statement.