Person Stops

Common Reasons to be Stopped

A person might be stopped if a police officer has reason to believe the person:

  • Has committed a crime.
  • Is about to commit a crime.
  • Has evidence of a crime.

Children can also be stopped and apprehended for curfew violations if they are not accompanied by their parent or a by a specified person 18 years of age or older authorized by the parent.

 
  • It is unlawful for children under or apparently under age 16 to be present (and unaccompanied as noted above) in any public place or a place of public entertainment in Saskatchewan between the hours of midnight and 6:00 a.m.

As in traffic stops, other reasons to be stopped include officers enforcing laws, looking for information in an investigation, or safety concerns.

Things to do When Stopped

Again, officers are trained to place a great deal of emphasis on their safety and yours so they can do the job of safeguarding the public. Many of these guidelines conform to safety procedures, based on long experience, that officers are trained to follow.

  • Keep your hands where the officer can see them. Don't put your hands in your pocket or clothing.
  • Stay put and stay calm. Don't walk or run from police. Don't touch any police officer.
  • Cooperate with the officer. Don't get into an argument.

As with traffic stops, if you do not agree with the officer's conduct or actions, keep track of all pertinent information, including the officer's rank and badge number. You have the right to complain at the Saskatoon Police Service. Officers are unable to handle your complaint on the scene.

Police at Your Home

The police can enter a residence if:

  • They have the consent of a resident, or
  • They have an arrest or search warrant, or
  • There are exigent circumstances, such as if they are in fresh pursuit of a suspect who just entered a residence, or there are circumstances where officers believe there is a threat to the safety of any person or loss of evidence would result if they waited for a warrant, or
  • They are performing public safety functions, such as answering a 9-1-1 call, rendering first aid, preventing serious harm to a person or property, or locating a person in need of protection.