Q&A for How to Arrest Someone

A citizen of any age may arrest another. You should keep in mind that a private arrest should only occur when there is no other option and you are fully aware of the risks and liabilities.

They may say verbally that they are surrendering, or they may get on the ground. Another way they may show they are surrendering is if they get on their knees and raise their hands opened or put their palms behind their head while kneeling. Normally if a suspect kneels or gets on the ground, they will say verbally that they are surrendering. Some also stand with their hands raised or hands behind their head.

Yes, assuming she is below the age of consent and you catch them in the act. Otherwise, you should report your concerns to DCS and the police.

They can if they have probable cause that the arrest is necessary. They must get an arrest warrant first.

It depends on the environment. If they are dangerous, then have them get on the ground. Otherwise, it should be on the knees. If you want to make someone get on the ground from their knees, you should verbally command them to do it. If they start resisting, then you should grab their neck (not choking or strangling), and grab one of their wrists while pushing them down with the hand on the neck. If a suspect is resistant, it is better to have backup.

As a child/teen, you should not attempt a citizen's arrest and should instead call the police if you witness a crime. You put yourself in direct danger by attempting a citizen's arrest.

You cannot call the police because someone is "giving you a hard time," unless they are legitimately physically or verbally abusing you (or someone else in the house). If you are being abused, call 911 or talk to another adult about it, like a teacher or guidance counselor at school.

Technically, yes. In practice, no. If you have a complaint about a police officer, then bring the matters to your local police department. Police have been arrested for committing the same crimes as ordinary citizens. They usually are put on leave as well.

Yes you can. In some places, it has to be a felony. And no, different countries have different laws on citizen's arrest; you'll need to check the different legislative provisions for each country.

If the officer has reasonable suspicion that you have commited a crime or are hiding something, then they can legally arrest you even without a warrant.

Yes, you’re permitted to make a citizen’s arrest but you should not attempt to do it as a minor. Either way, it would be much safer if you simply call the police if you witness a crime.

If the police see you commit a crime, have probable cause that you committed a crime or have an arrest warrant signed by a judge or magistrate, then they can legally arrest. This includes when in plain clothes.

It means that you choose to refuse to answer questions because you are afraid it might incriminate yourself. In this case, you would almost certainly get a lawyer to represent you.

Police officers have the authority to arrest anyone, even fellow law-enforcement officers. They probably wouldn't even need a warrant.

Yes, if the arresting individual has been professionally trained in the use of handcuffs and can justify such a course of action before the law.

You don't have to convince them of anything. Just ask them to perform a "welfare check" at that address. Tell them what you know and what you suspect. They will visit the address and check to see if everything is all right there. This is a common function of local police departments. (They will probably allow you to remain anonymous as far as your neighbor is concerned.)