How to Make a Citizen’s Arrest

Under section 24 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, any member of the British public has the power to arrest someone for an offence such as assault of theft.

• You can do this if you have witnessed the crime
• If you suspect someone and have reasonable grounds
• Did not witness the crime but know that someone is guilty
• Suspect a crime will happen in the future, minority report style.

How To Do It

Apprehend the person, and take them straight to the police station noting down anything they say.   Try to give the police some warning and explain fully what you’re charging them with. Even if you turn out to be wrong, you can still make an arrest.  You are only allowed to use reasonable force, so don’t do anything stupid as you might get charged with GBH, (grievous bodily harm).

Walk away knowing the streets are once again safe.