Looking to Extend Warrantless Arrests
According to Utah state law police officers have the authority to arrest without a warrant if a public offense is committed in the presence of the law enforcement or if there is reasonable cause to believe a felony or a class A misdemeanor has been committed. There are further exceptions within these two but other than those exceptions a police officer must have a warrant to arrest.
At the beginning of this year a bill was issued to amend a Utah state law that is specific to warrants and arrests. HB 59 – Arrest and Requirements – With or Without Warrants, proposed that peace officer’s hold the authority to arrest without a warrant if there is reasonable cause to believe any misdemeanor has been committed, not just a class A misdemeanor. This bill basically grants undue police force and holds a greater risk of potential abuse. Allowing law enforcement the power to make warrantless arrests for violating any misdemeanor would give more power than is necessary to law enforcement. Thankfully the bill was not very popular and as a result, did not pass in the legislative committee (it failed 3-9). You can expect, however, that this bill will resurface in the future. Utah law enforcement is seeking ever more power and control to interfere in personal lives. Make sure to contact your legislator in opposition to this bill.
Let Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Protect You
Criminal cases concerning felonies and misdemeanors are very serious and cannot be dealt with without a competent and experienced Criminal Defense. If you have been charged or arrested for a misdemeanor or felony, you can find legal help through an experienced criminal defense attorney. The criminal defense lawyers at Salcido Law Firm have experience that you can be confident will allow for the best outcome in your case. Salcido Law Firm is dedicated to protecting your rights while they help you undergo your criminal defense case. Salcido Law Firm offers free consultations where you can sit down with an attorney and discuss what legal actions can be taken. Call 801.413.1753 to speak with an lawyer and to schedule a free consultation.
