According to OCGA 17-4-20, under what condition can a warrantless arrest with probable cause be made?

A warrantless arrest with probable cause is legally justified when an officer has sufficient evidence to believe that a crime has been committed and that the individual they are arresting is responsible for that crime. This concept is central to the law enforcement process as it allows officers to act quickly and decisively in situations where waiting for a warrant could jeopardize public safety or allow potential evidence to be destroyed.

In this context, "probable cause" means that the officer has information that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a crime has occurred. This could stem from direct observation of a crime, witness statements, or other relevant evidence. Such a standard is crucial in maintaining the balance between enforcing the law and protecting citizens' rights.

Other options, such as the victim's request, the officer's personal judgment of necessity, or consent from both parties, do not meet the legal standard required for a warrantless arrest. While these factors may influence an officer's decision-making, they are not sufficient on their own to establish the legal grounds for an arrest without a warrant. Essentially, the presence of probable cause is the key determining factor that legitimizes the officer's action in making an arrest without obtaining prior judicial approval.