Under what circumstances can the Coast Guard arrest someone without a warrant?

The Coast Guard is empowered to arrest individuals without a warrant for any offense against the United States that is committed in their presence. This authority is rooted in the need for law enforcement to act quickly and efficiently to maintain safety and enforce federal laws, especially in maritime contexts where situations can rapidly evolve. The ability to make immediate arrests helps to ensure that officers can respond proactively to illegal activities and prevent potential harm or escape of individuals who may pose a threat to public safety or national security.

In contexts such as maritime law enforcement, this authority includes not only serious offenses but also encompasses various violations of federal law, which might occur on vessels, within coastal territories, or on navigable waters. This swift action capability is crucial as many offenses can escalate quickly without timely intervention.

The other options do not fully capture the breadth of the authority that allows for warrantless arrests by the Coast Guard. For example, minor infractions may not warrant immediate arrest, and while trespassing on federal property can sometimes lead to arrest, it is not an exclusive authority of the Coast Guard nor does it specifically reflect the broader powers granted under federal law. Lastly, while emergencies may necessitate swift actions by law enforcement, they do not automatically grant arrest powers without a warrant unless a specific crime is