Responding to Police Requests to Search YOUR Home

SAFE HOMES PROGRAM
What YOU Should Know

Members of the Boston Police Department may come to your door and ask to search your home. They may tell you they want to get guns off the street and will not arrest your child if they find a gun -- unless that gun is linked to a shooting.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts believes you should make an INFORMED CHOICE about whether to allow police to search your home.

HERE IS WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SUCH A SEARCH.

You have the right to say NO to a search.
Then the police should leave.

If you say YES, any of the following can happen:

• If the police find a gun and test it, they may arrest someone who lives in your home, including your child.

• If the police find drugs or anything illegal, they may charge someone who lives in your home, including your child, with a crime.

• Anything the police find in your home may lead to school discipline for your child, including suspension or expulsion.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact the ACLU of Massachusetts: (617) 482-3170.