What does OCGA 17-4-20-1 emphasize regarding arrest decisions?

The correct choice highlights that arrest decisions must be made based on the totality of circumstances and not solely on the nature of the relationship between the parties involved or whether there is consent. This principle is crucial in the context of family violence because it ensures that law enforcement does not overlook serious offenses simply because the individuals involved have a certain type of relationship (e.g., intimate partners or family members) or because one party has not explicitly requested an arrest. This approach aims to protect victims and hold offenders accountable, recognizing that the dynamics of domestic situations can often complicate matters significantly.

Other considerations, such as the presence of evidence or the seriousness of the crime, are important but should not overshadow the necessity for clear and fair criteria when making arrest determinations in situations of domestic violence. Thus, the emphasis on not basing decisions solely on relationship or consent helps prevent potentially dangerous situations where a victim’s safety is compromised due to inappropriate assumptions or biases.