Citizens whose homes are subjected to searches by the police are being encouraged to document and record the activity for use when the matter is called up in court.

At the same time, police officers who carry out searches are being urged to treat homeowners and their property with respect.

This following a recent viral social media video of police officers allegedly ransacking a woman’s home, during what is claimed to be a search conducted without a warrant.

People commenting on the video debated whether or not the search was legitimate.

Attorney-at-law Linton Gordon said without more information, or the police’s report on the incident, members of the public should not draw conclusions about what is shown in the video.

He explained that while the generally accepted principle is that the police should have a search warrant, there are occasions during which the warrant is not needed.

Mr. Gordon called on cops to be mindful of the benefit of getting more cooperation from citizens when they are treated with dignity and respect.

Mr. Gordon also advised citizens against confronting cops who search their homes.