Can police take my DNA in custody?

Non-intimate samples including mouth swabs may be taken without consent in certain circumstances under PACE with authorisation. Intimate samples have stricter rules.

DNA & Fingerprints Kent — Police Station Rights

Introduction

At Kent custody suites, police may seek fingerprints, photographs and DNA samples during detention. PACE and Code C set out when samples may be taken and what happens to biometric data.

Full guide: DNA and fingerprints at the police station.

Police Station Agent is a private defence website operated by Robert Cashman — NOT Kent Police. Legal services are delivered through Tuckers Solicitors LLP (SRA ID: 127795).

DNA and fingerprints at Kent police stations

Key takeaways

PACE Part V governs samples, fingerprints and photographs.
Different rules apply to intimate vs non-intimate samples.
Data may be retained on national databases subject to deletion rules.
Always take legal advice before consenting to procedures you do not understand.

What happens during booking-in?

Fingerprinting and photographs are routine at many Kent custody suites. DNA mouth swabs require statutory authority in specified circumstances. Your solicitor can explain what is being requested and why.

See also phone seizure guide for device examination — separate from biometric samples.

Related guides

Conclusion

This article is general information for people attending Kent police stations. For advice about your own case, speak to a qualified solicitor before interview.

Sources

General information only — not legal advice about any individual case. While every care is taken to keep information accurate, errors may occur and the law changes. Do not rely on this page instead of advice from a qualified solicitor. If you believe something is incorrect, contact us to report a content error. Statutory references and Code C paragraphs are summarised for readability; refer to the official published versions linked above.