When can a citizen make an arrest?

When can a citizen make an arrest?

• A. In emergencies only
• B. Limited to felony or breach of the peace misdemeanor
• C. Only with a warrant
• D. For any offense at any time when necessary

Answer: (B)

Citizen’s arrest is a narrowly defined option for private citizens. In Arizona, you may arrest someone when you reasonably believe they have committed a felony or a misdemeanor that breaches the peace. This restriction to serious offenses reflects the public-safety justification for acting without a warrant. It isn’t a tool for every crime, and it doesn’t apply to minor offenses. You don’t need a warrant to do this, but you should contact law enforcement as soon as possible and avoid taking actions beyond what is reasonable. That limited scope—felonies or breaches of the peace misdemeanors—is why this choice is the best fit.

Citizen’s arrest is a narrowly defined option for private citizens. In Arizona, you may arrest someone when you reasonably believe they have committed a felony or a misdemeanor that breaches the peace. This restriction to serious offenses reflects the public-safety justification for acting without a warrant. It isn’t a tool for every crime, and it doesn’t apply to minor offenses. You don’t need a warrant to do this, but you should contact law enforcement as soon as possible and avoid taking actions beyond what is reasonable. That limited scope—felonies or breaches of the peace misdemeanors—is why this choice is the best fit.