By Alfie Croucher –

In October 2024, the number of stop and searches conducted by West Yorkshire Police across Kirklees saw a 3% decrease compared to the previous month.

A total of 99 stop and searches were carried out across the 24 districts that make up Kirklees.

The reasons for these stop and searches varied, but notable reductions were observed.

Suspected stolen goods searches decreased by 36%, and searches for offensive weapons plummeted by 72% from September to October.

In September, controlled drugs were the focus of more than half of all stop and searches, followed by offensive weapons, which accounted for nearly 13%.

Stolen goods were found in one out of every ten searches conducted.

Despite the overall decline in stop and searches in October, there was a 20% increase in searches for drugs, totalling 72 for the month, which constituted nearly 73% of all stop and searches conducted.

Searches for offensive weapons accounted for just over 15% of the total, while searches for stolen goods decreased to 7%.

West Yorkshire Police have introduced a feedback form for individuals involved in stop and searches to provide their thoughts and experiences.

This feedback includes how they were approached, the conduct of the officer, and how safe they felt during the search.

The feedback form is part of an effort to improve the police’s approach to conducting stop and searches and can be accessed here.

This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness and transparency of stop and searches, ensuring that they are conducted respectfully and safely for all involved.