National Investigators Exam (NIE) Practice Exam

What does S17 of PACE authorize a police officer to do?

1. Conduct searches without a warrant

2. Enter a property to save life or prevent damage

3. Arrest individuals based on suspicion

4. Seize evidence found during a routine check

The correct answer is: Enter a property to save life or prevent damage

S17 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) specifically authorizes a police officer to enter a property to save life or prevent serious damage to property. This provision is critical in emergency situations where immediate action is necessary and where obtaining a warrant would delay the response, potentially leading to worse outcomes. This section emphasizes the importance of public safety and the role of police in responding to urgent situations. In essence, it enables law enforcement to act swiftly to prevent harm, reflecting the law's recognition of the need for certain powers in extraordinary circumstances. The other choices, while they may pertain to police powers, do not accurately reflect the specific authority granted under S17. For example, conducting searches without a warrant pertains to different sections that outline general police search powers, while arresting individuals based on suspicion involves different legal criteria and specific justifications not covered by S17. Similarly, seizing evidence during a routine check would fall under a different legal framework regarding seizure and search procedures.