What can happen if a bad arrest is made?

Making a bad arrest can have serious legal consequences, which is why the correct response highlights that you can be sued or prosecuted. When an arrest is deemed improper—perhaps due to lack of probable cause, misuse of authority, or violation of an individual’s rights—it exposes the officer to civil liability. This means that individuals who feel their rights were violated may file a lawsuit against the officer and the department.

Additionally, the officer may face criminal charges if the arrest involved an abuse of power or the application of excessive force. Such actions can result in disciplinary measures from their department, including suspension or termination, as well as potential prosecution under state or federal law. This emphasizes the importance of adhering to proper procedures and understanding one's legal limits when making arrests, as any deviation can lead to significant ramifications both personally and professionally.