Police Custody

The main custody function of the Constabulary is located at Police Headquarters, Douglas, with overspill facilities at Lord Street Police Station, Lower Douglas, and Port Erin. Primary legislation governing the detention of persons in police custody is the Police Powers and Procedures Act 1998 (PPP), which mirrors the UK's Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).

In 2006, the UK Home Office published Guidance on the Safer Detention & Handling of Persons in Police Custody, which sets the standard for identifying and minimising the risk of death or serious adverse event in custody. Although not legally obliged to follow these standards, Isle of Man Constabulary has voluntarily adopted the Guidance as best practice.

As well as internal audit and inspection regimes in relation to compliance with the legislation and detention standards, the Isle of Man has a lay visitor scheme. The Board of Visitors, whose members make monthly unannounced visits to monitor police custody, provide additional independent safeguards to ensure proper treatment of people in custody.

Inspector Will Campbell is the officer in overall charge of Custody, which provides a 24/7 service, with specially trained and dedicated staff.