A citizen’s arrest, also known as a civilian’s arrest, is an arrest made by a private citizen (as opposed to a law enforcement officer) in certain situations, such as when a felony is being committed or has recently been committed. The authority to make a citizen’s arrest varies by jurisdiction, and it is essential to be aware of the specific laws in your area before attempting to make an arrest.
Citizen’s arrests can be an important tool for upholding the law and protecting the community. However, it is important to use this power responsibly and only when absolutely necessary. If you are ever in a situation where you believe you need to make a citizen’s arrest, follow these steps: