When is it Legal to Make A Citizen’s Arrest in Texas?

In Texas, anyone is empowered to make a citizen's arrest. However, there are some important guidelines to keep in mind before you go off arresting a stranger. Most of us will probably never find ourselves in this sort of situation, but on the off chance you do, it's important to know how it works.

So, when is it legal to make a citizen's arrest in Texas?

According to VersusTexas.com, "...a peace officer or any other person may arrest without a warrant when the offense is committed in his or her presence or within view, and it is a felony or offense against the public peace." Basically, this means if you are witnessing a felony, or you are watching a cop getting beat up, you are permitted to make a citizen's arrest.

Police probably appreciate brave bystanders who step in to help when things get sticky, but, the best policy is honestly probably to just be a good witness instead and leave actual arrests to a peace officer. You could get yourself into a lot of trouble if you make a citizen's arrest that isn't necessary, and you could also get hurt or even killed in the process. This article by the Port Arthur News gives a lot of insight into why it's better to remain a witness.

Hopefully, that clears up some of what it means to make a citizen's arrest in Texas. For more information, click here.

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