Under what circumstances can an officer arrest a suspect without a warrant in family violence cases?

In family violence cases, an officer can arrest a suspect without a warrant if they either witness a crime being committed or have probable cause to believe that a crime has occurred. This is grounded in the principle of "exigent circumstances," which allows law enforcement to act quickly to prevent further harm or to secure evidence. When an officer observes a crime in progress, they have the legal authority to intervene immediately to protect victims and maintain public safety.

Probable cause may arise from various factors, including the officer's observations, statements from witnesses, or the behavior of the suspect. This criterion is crucial because it ensures that officers can respond effectively to situations that may escalate quickly, especially in the context of family violence, where the potential for harm is significant.

The other scenarios, such as an arrest being made at the victim's request or based on the suspect's previous charges, do not necessarily meet the legal conditions required for a warrantless arrest. Witness presence may support the officer's actions but alone does not suffice for establishing the grounds for an arrest without a warrant. Therefore, the ability to arrest without a warrant hinges on the officer's direct observation of criminal activity or the existence of probable cause.