JFG-R: Interrogations and Searches

The current state of interaction between school officials and the police can be viewed as very co-operative and professional. This high level of co-operation exists despite what are, at times, conflicting objectives. In many instances, the school's position of assuming the parental role for a youth is in conflict with the police role of investigating and arresting offenders. The following guidelines are intended to be utilized by both the schools and the police to minimize problems and to further facilitate the excellent working relationship between the police and the schools.

School administrators must be aware that no special legal exceptions exist for police actions on school property. Whenever a police officer takes any actions, it is the officer who has to justify these acts, whether in civil or criminal court. A school administrator is encouraged to express verbally any concerns or disapproval; however, any overt interference with a police officer in the legal execution of his/her duties may constitute a criminal offence.

Any complaints or concerns as to a police officer's behaviour can be made through proper channels. School administrators may contact the police officer's supervisor or the Internal Investigation Squad.

Vancouver police officers will extend the following courtesies to the schools in recognition of the special relationship between the student and the schools:

Police officers shall make every effort to notify a school administrator prior to:

• arresting a student on school property,
• searching a student or any place on school property,
• interviewing a student on school property.

In situations when it is not practical to notify the school administrator prior to the contact with the student on school property, the police officer shall notify the administrator as soon as possible after the encounter.

When the school administrator does not concur with the police officer's proposed course of action, the police officer shall give consideration to proceeding with the investigation outside of school hours. A police supervisor may be requested to attend.

Police officers are encouraged to contact a school liaison officer or the N.C.O. i/c School Liaison prior to taking any action involving the schools.

DMT Responsibility: AS-F