How Do You Make A Citizens Arrest?
• Notify authorities if you can. Law enforcement officials strongly encourage citizens to phone in a complaint or tip rather than try to stop a crime themselves. You should carefully consider whether you’re putting yourself or others in more danger than necessary by making a citizen’s arrest. A citizen’s arrest is only an emergency measure to stop a suspect until law enforcement officials can take matters into their own hands. If you think that the local police will be able to find the suspect, a citizen’s arrest may not be necessary. With a detailed description and a license plate number, you can arm the police with the information they need to apprehend the suspect. • Evaluate the situation clearly. You could be legally liable if you make a false accusation or if you assault someone without a very strong reason to think they are in the middle of a crime. How close are you? Can you see what’s going on? Do you know the participants? The best time to make a citizen’s arrest is when you’
