Resisting arrest, a criminal offense, occurs when an individual actively obstructs or hinders a law enforcement officer from performing a lawful arrest. This charge is often added to other alleged offenses during an encounter with police. An example includes physically struggling with an officer attempting to place handcuffs on an individual who is being lawfully detained.
The consequences of a resisting arrest conviction can range from fines and probation to jail time, depending on the severity of the resistance and the jurisdiction. Furthermore, a criminal record can negatively impact future employment, housing, and other opportunities. Historically, laws regarding resisting arrest have evolved alongside legal interpretations of individual rights during interactions with law enforcement.