In domestic violence cases, who decides on arrest and prosecution?

In domestic violence cases, who decides on arrest and prosecution?

• A. The Victim
• B. The Police Chief
• C. The State (the officer)
• D. The Prosecutor

Answer: (C)

Arrest and prosecution in domestic violence cases are actions carried out by state actors, not by the victim. Police officers act as the state's agents and determine, based on probable cause, whether to arrest someone. After an arrest, the decision to prosecute—whether to file charges and what charges to pursue—rests with the prosecutor, who represents the state. Because both steps involve state authority and are carried out by state officials, the option pointing to the state (via the officer) is the best fit.

Arrest and prosecution in domestic violence cases are actions carried out by state actors, not by the victim. Police officers act as the state's agents and determine, based on probable cause, whether to arrest someone. After an arrest, the decision to prosecute—whether to file charges and what charges to pursue—rests with the prosecutor, who represents the state. Because both steps involve state authority and are carried out by state officials, the option pointing to the state (via the officer) is the best fit.