If there is probable cause to believe an offense has occurred, how can an officer respond?

When an officer has probable cause to believe that an offense has occurred, making an arrest is a legitimate and often necessary response. Probable cause represents a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed, which legally empowers the officer to take immediate action to detain the suspect. This response is crucial for law enforcement, as it enables the preservation of public safety and ensures that offenders are held accountable for their actions.

Making an arrest allows the officer to formally charge the suspect and initiate the judicial process, ensuring that the incident is addressed in a manner compliant with legal procedures. It also aids in preventing potential further criminal activity by the individual in question.

In contrast, contacting the suspect or gathering more evidence could result in the loss of crucial information or allow the suspect to evade accountability. While issuing a citation is an option available in certain circumstances, it typically applies to less serious offenses or when an arrest isn't warranted; therefore, it is not the most appropriate response in this scenario when there is established probable cause.