[ Almanack Index | Metro | Metroactive Central | Archives ]

When Civility Fails

Book 'Em Making a citizen's arrest in real life isn't as glamorous as on TV. One need not take down the thug, whip out some handcuffs and read the Miranda rights. However, a police officer may not arrest or cite a person at the scene for a misdemeanor crime not committed in his/her presence. So here's where you come in. It's all a part of being a good citizen. Notify police upon observing a crime. Provide police with information to assist in identifying the violator. Sign a citizen's arrest form and a complaint form. Most cases are concluded without your further involvement. However: There is a possibility that you could receive a subpoena to testify in court as to what you saw. Appear in court when requested by the district attorney's office. [ San Jose | Metroactive Central | Archives ]