Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation - Operations Manual

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Chapter 5 – Adult Custody and Security Operations

Article 19 – Arrest, Search, and Seizure

Revised December 16, 2014

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52050.13 Restraining a Private Citizen

Revised May 13, 2026

  • A peace officer may restrain (e.g. handcuff) a private citizen when making an arrest or when reasonably necessary (e.g. risk of harming someone or fleeing) during an investigative detention.

  • Prior to applying restraints, peace officers shall judiciously consider the following:

    • The existence of probable cause to make an arrest.

    • Severity of the crime for the investigative detention.

    • Medical issues or a disability that may require alternative restraint application.

    • If the detainee is known to be pregnant.

    • Behavior or demeanor of the detainee which may pose a risk of harming someone or fleeing from an investigative detention.