Street Checks

The collection of personal information during police interactions with a member of the public – referred to as ‘street checks’ – can assist police in preventing and investigating crime.

What is a street check?

Street checks are conversations between a police officer and a member of the public and may only be conducted if there are clear grounds that it may further an investigation or prevent crime, disorder and victimization.

The subject of a street check is not under detention and is under no obligation to provide information to the questioning officer unless there is a legal requirement.

The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) conducts street checks and we follow policies and training to ensure oversight related to fair and impartial policing.

What is carding?

Street checks are sometimes incorrectly referred to as ‘carding.’ The LPS does not practice ‘carding,’ which involves officers randomly requesting personal information from a member of the public without reasonable grounds.

Why do officers use street checks?

Street checks are an important tool for crime prevention initiated by officers in response to crime trends, public safety concerns and may result from a call for service or proactive policing.

When would an officer conduct a street check?

Street checks are used when a police officer is responding to a call for service, or when he or she sees something that looks unusual – a person in need of assistance, or someone acting suspiciously.

The information gathered is then recorded in a ‘street check report’ by the police officer and retained by the local police agency. If criminal activity was reported in the same area as the street check, police would have a starting point to investigate the crime. Information contained in the street check could identify a witness, evidence, or even a suspect.

Street Check Reviews

The LPS has training and reporting practices regarding street checks to comply with provincial regulations. To view Street Check Annual Reports, visit the Reports and Publications webpage.