Gualtieri Proposes Random Cavity Searches to Keep Crime Fighting Out of the Stone Age
LARGO — Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri is proposing proactive cavity searches for residents suspected of criminal behavior, warning that restrictions on routine police procedures could take crime fighting “back to the Stone Age.”
The proposed Resident Evidence Assessment and Recovery program would allow deputies to conduct what the Sheriff’s Office calls “comprehensive internal screenings” during traffic stops, retail theft investigations and other situations in which evidence of a crime may not be immediately visible.
“We live in a technological age,” Gualtieri said. “But sometimes the evidence isn’t where our cameras can see it.”
Under the proposal, grounds for a screening could include behaving suspiciously at a self-checkout or loitering after hours.
Gualtieri said the program would be especially useful in cases involving stolen merchandise.
“You can search the vehicle. But until you conduct a complete examination of the suspect, you don’t really know what’s going on there,” he said.
The Sheriff’s Office would establish mobile screening stations at county parks, boat ramps, Publix supermarkets and large public events.
Gualtieri emphasized that the searches would not be mandatory unless a resident refuses to voluntarily submit to one.
“Nobody is forcing anyone to do anything,” he said. “But refusing a lawful request for a voluntary cavity search obviously raises questions about what that person may be hiding.”
Vice Admiral Graham Whitmore of St. Pete’s Auxiliary Security Service called the proposal a sensible balance between personal dignity and the operational needs of law enforcement.
“If you haven’t hidden anything inside of yourself, you have nothing to worry about,” Whitmore said. “For most law-abiding residents, it’ll be over in a jiffy.”
Residents who successfully complete ten screenings would receive a $5 Chick-fil-A gift card.
