What is a condition for arresting someone involved in family violence without a warrant?

What is a condition for arresting someone involved in family violence without a warrant?

• A. There must be witnesses present
• B. The suspect must be found fleeing
• C. Probable cause to believe an offense has occurred
• D. The victim must file a complaint first

Answer: (C)

In cases of family violence, law enforcement officers have the authority to arrest an individual without a warrant if there is probable cause to believe that an offense has occurred. This means that if the officer has reasonable grounds based on their observations, evidence, or credible information to believe that a crime related to family violence has taken place, they can make an arrest on the spot. This provision is designed to protect victims and prevent further harm, enabling law enforcement to act swiftly in high-risk situations. The presence of witnesses, the suspect fleeing the scene, or a victim filing a complaint are not prerequisites for a warrantless arrest in these situations. The critical factor is the existence of probable cause, which empowers law enforcement to intervene and arrest to ensure safety and uphold the law effectively.

In cases of family violence, law enforcement officers have the authority to arrest an individual without a warrant if there is probable cause to believe that an offense has occurred. This means that if the officer has reasonable grounds based on their observations, evidence, or credible information to believe that a crime related to family violence has taken place, they can make an arrest on the spot. This provision is designed to protect victims and prevent further harm, enabling law enforcement to act swiftly in high-risk situations.

The presence of witnesses, the suspect fleeing the scene, or a victim filing a complaint are not prerequisites for a warrantless arrest in these situations. The critical factor is the existence of probable cause, which empowers law enforcement to intervene and arrest to ensure safety and uphold the law effectively.