The police also have the power to use force when conducting searches but again, this must be necessary and proportionate in the circumstances. The topical case of Stewart & Chergui held that where a police officer was searching a flat and pulled a person from a sofa and generally acted with unnecessary force, the Claimant was awarded £350 in damages.
If you, your vehicle or your property have been unlawfully searched you may have a claim for damages against the police.