A warrantless arrest is an arrest of an individual without the use of an arrest warrant. It is generally made with probable cause and exigent circumstances, which means that the police officer has a reasonable belief that the suspect has either committed a crime or is about to commit a crime. Here are some key points to understand about warrantless arrests:

• A warrantless arrest can be made if a person is about to commit or is currently committing an offense, or if the officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person is guilty of an offense.
• In the United States, a warrantless arrest still requires probable cause. Probable cause is a reasonable belief of the police officer in the guilt of the suspect, based on the facts and information prior to the arrest.
• Warrantless arrests are permitted in specific circumstances, such as when a felony or breach of the peace has been committed in the presence or within the view of a magistrate.
• Police officers can also make a warrantless arrest if they have probable cause to believe that a suspect committed a minor crime punishable by a small fine.
• Warrantless arrests aim to quickly handle crimes, but rules are in place to prevent misuse and defend people’s rights.

It is important to note that even when a law enforcement officer makes a lawful warrantless arrest, criminal procedure laws and the Fourth Amendment require the officer to inform a judge that they had probable cause to make an arrest. If they fail to do so, a suspect cannot legally remain in custody.