Under what circumstances can an officer make a warrantless misdemeanor arrest?

A warrantless misdemeanor arrest is permissible when the offense is committed in the officer's presence or when specific exceptions to the rule apply. This aligns with California law, which allows officers to take immediate action when they directly observe a misdemeanor occurring, ensuring prompt enforcement of the law and maintaining public order.

Commitment in the officer's presence establishes the legitimacy of the arrest, as the officer can verify that a crime is taking place. Additionally, there are exceptions under circumstances where misdemeanors might not need to occur in the officer's immediate view, such as domestic violence incidents or situations involving certain impaired drivers. These provisions ensure that law enforcement can respond effectively to prevent harm, even if the crime was not witnessed firsthand.

This is essential for upholding public safety and enforcing the law efficiently, especially in dynamic situations where delays could lead to further offenses or endanger individuals involved.