Powers to ArrestQuestion 13 of 200

When making a private-person arrest, what does Penal Code §841 generally require the arrestor to do?

a.Nothing — only peace officers must identify themselves and state the cause of an arrest
b.Give the Miranda warnings before asking the detained person any question about the offense or the missing property
c.Inform the person of the intention to arrest, the cause of the arrest, and the authority to make it
d.Obtain the person's signed written consent to the restraint before any hands-on contact is made with them

Explanation

Penal Code §841 generally requires the person making an arrest — peace officer or private person — to inform the arrestee of the intention to arrest, the cause of the arrest, and the authority making it. Miranda warnings (b) apply to custodial interrogation by government actors and generally do not bind private security making a citizen's arrest. Written consent (d) is not required. Compliance with §841 supports the lawfulness of the arrest and protects against civil claims.

Law Reference: Cal. Penal Code §841

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