TCOLE Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP) Practice Exam 2025 - Free TCOLE CCP Practice Questions and Study Guide

An arresting officer must show the authority under which the arrest is made at the time of arrest. This requirement is vital in ensuring that the individual being arrested understands the legal basis for their detention and that the officer is acting within the bounds of the law. Presenting this information at the moment of arrest helps to uphold the rights of the individual, ensuring that they are aware of the nature of the authority claimed by the officer, which is key to the legitimacy of the arrest process.

Providing this information at the time of arrest also helps to prevent misunderstandings or disputes regarding the legality of the arrest and reinforces the principle of transparency in law enforcement. It creates an immediate opportunity for the officer to inform the suspect of the charges or the basis for the arrest, which can be crucial in maintaining order and clarity during the encounter.

The other scenarios outlined do not align with the appropriate timing for showing authority. For example, waiting until after custody or transport to the jail would not fulfill the legal obligation to inform the suspect at the moment of arrest. Similarly, showing authority before detaining a suspect does not apply, as the context of showing that authority specifically pertains to the point of arrest, not beforehand.