An officer may arrest a person when probable cause exists to believe that person committed an offense. A police officer does not need a warrant to arrest someone he believes committed a crime. When the police arrest someone, they can “direct file” the case with the Court or place the person on “investigative hold”. In either event, one of three things can happen:
- The defendant is released if the prosecutor decides not to file charges.
- The defendant posts bail (also called a “bond“) and is released to appear in court at a later date. If this happens, the Sheriff’s Department will give the defendant paperwork telling them when to appear in court.
- The defendant stays in jail until the next available court sessions. Sheriff’s officers transport the defendant to court.