Police have been given new powers to enter and search premises without a warrant under legislation passed by MPs on Friday.

The Police and Criminal Evidence Amendment (PACE) Act 2009 was approved after its third reading in the House of Assembly.

Junior Justice Minister Michael Scott said the law would do away with the need for search warrants in cases where officers were seeking a person suspected of committing an arrestable offence, pursuing a person unlawfully at large or trying to apprehend a person wanted in connection with a court warrant issued for an arrestable offence.

They will also only need a warrant from a magistrate — rather than a judge — to demand confidential records, such as cell phones and medical or banking information.

Other new powers to come into effect on September 7 include taking footwear impressions from those detained for a recordable offence and being able to enter premises occupied by a suspect in search of evidence.

Mr. Scott said the legislation was the latest step in the phasing-in of PACE powers in Bermuda, based on similar provisions that exist for the Police in the UK.

"The bill under consideration today represents further evidence of this government's continued commitment to provide the Police with positive and proactive tools in their fight against crime."

He said the extra powers would particularly help officers tackle gang and gun-related crime.

"Many of our citizens are aware what is going on within the four walls of our homes and many of our residents know what is going on is unlawful, such as the presence of drugs," said Mr. Scott.

"This legislation gives authority to Police to enter and investigate and detect the crimes which are going on inside Bermuda homes.

"It will play an important role in what is rolling back what is seen as a horse out of control in relation to crime in our country."

Shadow Attorney General Trevor Moniz welcomed the legislation and said he hoped the amendments would give the public more confidence in the justice system.

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