Custody officer (and custody record)

The police officer, usually a sergeant, responsible for your detention, rights and welfare at the police station, separate from the investigation.

The custody officer is a police officer, normally of at least the rank of sergeant, who is in charge of people detained at a police station under section 36 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. They should not be involved in investigating your case. When you arrive, they decide whether there are grounds to detain you, tell you your rights (including free legal advice, having someone told of your arrest and reading the PACE Codes), assess risks to your health and open a custody record. The custody record logs what happens during your detention, such as reviews, meals, visits and interviews. You, your solicitor or appropriate adult can ask for a copy when you leave, and this right lasts 12 months. Custody officers also decide, following the charging rules, whether you are charged, bailed or released, including release under investigation.

Checked as at 25 September 2026. General information only, not legal advice.