Can police or PCSO's confiscate my camera?
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In certain circumstances, yes, but note that all these powers are restricted to police, not PCSO's.

  • After arrest for any offence all your personal belongings will be confiscated
  • After arrest, when they believe it may be stolen property
  • After arrest, when they believe you are using it as an offensive weapon
  • Stop and search under the Terrorism Act 2000 entitles police to search any equipment that may be used for terrorism. They also have the power to seize the camera for examination and to arrest you.
  • Police may wish to see photos because hey believe it contains evidence of the commission of a crime. This is particularly difficult because if you object you may be arrested for obstruction of a policeman in performance of his duty.
    The police have a right to view and keep copies of your photos for evidential purposes unless you identify yourself as a professional newsgatherer, in which case your equipment, media and data is 'special procedure material' under PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act) and may only be accessed on the order of a court.
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