Police filming of naked searches criticized

Denmark’s police generally treat detainees properly, but a new report by the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) criticizes some practices. The report highlights that the police sometimes conduct body searches by making individuals completely disrobe without following a step-by-step procedure to protect their dignity. Moreover, these searches are conducted in rooms with CCTV, where large-screen footage is visible in police station operation rooms, accessible to all staff. The CPT recommends a change in protocols, introducing a two-step procedure for searches and ensuring no searches happen in CCTV-monitored areas to respect detainee dignity. The Danish Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard, having not yet read the report, expressed trust in Correctional Services’ usage but recognized the importance of addressing any criticisms.