Being a football supporter you always run the risk of being arrested. Whether you are drunk and disorderly or just wearing the latest SI top, the police will always be on hand to show their authority. The below information is facts and tips on what you can and can't do when getting arrested. These are your rights so take note lads!

1. You have the right to be treated fairly and with respect by the police
You do not have to say anything to the police. BUT if you are later charged
with a crime and you have not mentioned, when questioned, something that
you later rely on in court, then this may be taken into account when deciding if
you are guilty. There may be good reasons why you do not wish to say
anything to the police, and you should not be intimidated into answering
questions. Get a solicitor down to see you in the police station as soon as
possible.

2. There may be times when if you give an innocent explanation for what you
have done, the police may leave you alone.
It is wise not to discuss the case with the police until you have consulted
privately with a solicitor If the police are about to arrest you or have already
arrested you, there is no such thing as a `friendly chat' to sort things out.
Anything you say can later be used against you. Think before you talk.

3. When the police get it wrong

If you want to challenge anything the police have done then get the names and
addresses of any witnesses, make a written record as soon as possible after
the event. It should be witnessed, dated and signed. If you are injured, or
property is damaged, then take photographs or video recordings as soon as
possible and have physical injuries medically examined. If you have been
treated unfairly then complain to a civil liberties group such as Release or
contact a solicitor about possible legal action.

4. On the street

If you are stopped by the police: If they are not in uniform then ask to see their
warrant card. Ask why you have been stopped and at the end ask for a record
of the search. You can be stopped and searched if the police have a
reasonable suspicion that you are in possession of:

controlled drugs
offensive weapon or firearms
carrying a sharp article
carrying stolen goods

if you are in a coach or train, going to, or you have arrived at, a sports stadium
There are other situations where you can be stopped and searched, for
example: If police fear there might be serious violence in a particular area they
can stop and search anyone in that area for up to 24 hours. In these
circumstances the police do not need to have a reasonable suspicion that you
are carrying a weapon or committing a crime. This very wide power can be
used at raves, demonstrations etc.

REMEMBER: You run the risk of both physical injury and serious criminal
charges if you physically resist a search. If it is an unlawful search you should
take action afterwards by using the law.
5. In the police station

You always have the right: to be treated humanely and with respect. To see the
written codes governing your right and how you are treated. To speak to the
custody officer (the officer who must look after your welfare). to know why
you have been arrested. You also have the right (but they can in rare situations
be delayed): to have someone notified of your arrest (not to make a phone call
yourself). to consult with a solicitor privately.