Child catcher
Question
There are a bunch of kids that keep hassling me and my housemates. Can I make a citizen's arrest when it's a child committing a crime?
Answer
Although you can make a citizen's arrest if someone is committing a crime or you know someone is guilty there are a number of things to consider if the offenders are children.
Even if the arrest is successful any child under the age of ten is not considered to be criminally responsible, so even if they are arrested they cannot be charged. You should also bear in mind the possibility that you could be accused of assault, for using unreasonable force or even child abuse, especially if there is a struggle.
If you're in any doubt about the age of the child, what is happening or you feel your safety is at risk then you should consider calling your local police station and seeing how they might be able to help.
An alternative to this might be to consider contacting your local council or the police about an anti-social behaviour order. To find out how to report anti-social behaviour and more information about your rights take a look at www.together.gov.uk.
Updated: 05/12/2007
Question answered by CAB
