Introduction+to+the+Arrest+Process

=**__ Introduction to the Arrest Process __**=

The ability of a police officer to arrest an individual who is suspected of committing a crime is one of the most basic tools of the Criminal Justice system. This ability is exercised every day in the United States. The function of an arrest is based in the principles of justice and deterrence, and the process by which it is carried out has been heavily scrutinized and the subject of much litigation. When law enforcement exercises their ability to arrest a suspected criminal, this begins the process of a criminal lawsuit. If the suspect is found or pleads guilty, this offers offers justice to the victims of the crime. Further, an arrest can serve the function of deterring individuals from committing future crimes, either through punishing said individuals for past crimes, or by influencing others to live law abiding lives by using those individuals as examples.

The arrest process is documented and acted out in police training and procedures across the United States. The process is outlined with specific procedures established from the U.S. Constitution, Supreme Court case laws, and state and local laws. Law enforcement officers must follow federal and state laws governing proper procedure when making an arrest. Federal and state laws protect citizen’s rights while promoting specific police duties. The process of an arrest is a series of legal procedures that lead to an officer detaining a suspected criminal in jail.

This process begins when an officer has a substantial reason to detain a person. When in custody, the suspect's person and belongings are searched and he or she is often read the Miranda Rights. After being secured into police custody, a suspect is then transported to a local detention facility. At the detention facility, the arrestee is given an intake interview, asked a series of questions, photographed, fingerprinted, searched, and booked into the jail system. Once booking is completed, the arrestee is taken to a holding cell. This cell is a temporary place where an individual awaits an initial hearing on release. After this hearing, the arrestee can either meet the conditions the court has set forth, or they can remain in detention to await trial.

Introduction to the Arrest Process Conclusion to the Arrest Process
 * Reasons for Arrest
 * Custody
 * Transport
 * Intake & Booking
 * Holding
 * Release