Citizens are sometimes allowed to make arrests if they witness a crime. However, this action is not without risk. If a person attempts a citizen’s arrest and ends up hurting someone, they could face serious legal consequences.
Legal consequences of causing harm during a citizen’s arrest
The law allows citizens to arrest someone they witness committing a felony. However, using excessive force can lead to legal troubles.
Hurting someone during a citizen’s arrest could lead to charges of assault or battery against you, including criminal charges and civil lawsuits. It is because the law requires that any force used in a citizen’s arrest must be reasonable and necessary to prevent the crime or detain the suspect.
What is considered reasonable force?
When making a citizen’s arrest, using reasonable force is important to avoid legal repercussions. This means using only as much force as necessary to detain the suspect until law enforcement arrives.
Using unreasonable force, like employing a weapon when there’s no immediate threat or persisting with force after subduing the suspect, can lead to criminal charges.
Potential legal consequences
If you hurt someone during a citizen’s arrest, you could face several legal consequences:
- Criminal charges: Prosecutors could file assault or battery charges against you.
- Civil lawsuits: The person you injured might sue you for damages.
- Liability issues: You could incur liability for medical expenses and other damages.
If you’re unsure about making a citizen arrest or if the individual is committing a felony, it would be best to contact the police and avoid risking legal consequences.