How to Conduct a Body Search

When conducting a body search of a suspect the most important objective is to maintain control of the search. The body position of the suspect is the first thing that an officer must establish. Command the suspect to turn away from the sound of your voice, and separate their feet. Next command the suspect to bend over at the waste while looking up at the sky.

While the suspect is in this position it will set them off balance and give you an advantage when searching them. When the suspect is in the desired position move toward the suspect on a 45 degree angle on their right side and gain a steady grip of their hand. Then conduct your search of their body breaking them down into four quadrants. The quadrants are the upper right and left, and the lower right and left. Using a patting technique be sure to search the body systematically. When searching the upper section of the body make ensure to search the hair thoroughly, any clothing that is being worn, and mouth. Also ensure searching all pockets that may be on the upper half of the body. Then searching the lower half you will be searching the belt line, any pockets they may have, and shoes. Note that there is no time limit to the search you may take as long as you need until you feel the suspect is thoroughly searched.