TRUE or FALSE: A citizen may arrest for misdemeanors and felonies committed in their presence.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not determinable
• D. It depends on jurisdiction

Answer: (A)

When a crime is happening in your presence, you have the right to detain the suspect until law enforcement arrives. This applies to both misdemeanors and felonies because you are witnessing the offense as it unfolds, giving you a basis to intervene and prevent further harm or escape. The key idea is the presence requirement: you can legally act as a private person when you directly observe the wrongdoing, which is why the statement is true.

Keep in mind that laws can vary by jurisdiction for offenses not witnessed or for the use of force, and the detention must be reasonable and limited in scope and duration while you contact authorities.