Crime reduction 

The law and you

It is a rare and frightening prospect to be confronted by an intruder in your own home.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) has issued a joint public statement on 'householders and the use of force against intruders'.

The statement summarises the position when you are faced with an intruder in your home, and provides a brief overview of how the police and CPS will deal with any such events. Wherever possible, you should call the police on 999.

The statement covers the following issues:

  • Does the law protect me?
  • What is 'reasonable force'?
  • Do I have to wait to be attacked?
  • What if the intruder dies?
  • What if I chase them as they run off?
  • Will you believe the intruder rather than me?
  • How would the police and CPS handle the investigation and treat me?

Further information

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