Black and ethnic minority individuals in the West Midlands remain significantly more likely to be subjected to stop and search by local police, according to the latest annual report from West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster. The data reveals that Black people are three times more likely, and those from other ethnic minority groups 1.8 times more likely, to be stopped and searched than their white counterparts.
These findings will be examined at the upcoming West Midlands Police and Crime Panel meeting scheduled for February 2.
In the fiscal year 2024/25, West Midlands Police conducted a total of 26,622 stop and searches. Body worn video (BWV) technology was utilized in 98% of these incidents, demonstrating consistent compliance with recording policies. The figures also show that use of force powers were deployed 48,203 times, with BWV used in 92% of those cases.
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The report notes a positive trend in BWV usage: compliance during stop and search increased from 42% in 2018/19 to 98% in 2024/25, while compliance during use of force rose from 87% last year to 92% this year. Additionally, in December 2024, West Midlands Police extended the retention period for BWV footage from 12 weeks to 12 months to enhance transparency and governance.
Despite improved recording practices, the rate at which illegal items are discovered during stop and searches remains steady at 30%, a slight increase from 29% the prior year.
Disproportionality ratios highlight the ongoing imbalance. While Black individuals are three times more likely to be stopped and searched than white individuals, Asian people face a 1.8 times higher likelihood. Contrastingly, use of force data reveals that Asian individuals are actually less likely (0.8 times) to experience force compared to white individuals, whereas Black individuals are almost twice as likely (1.9 times) to be subjected to such measures.
In an effort to improve community engagement and accountability, the police have introduced a feedback mechanism using QR codes. Officers provide these codes during stop and search encounters, allowing individuals to anonymously report on their experience and perceptions of fairness. Currently, around 2% of those stopped provide feedback via this platform, and raising awareness of the QR code continues to be a priority for West Midlands Police.