Which statement accurately describes who may arrest a principal on a bond in Ohio?

Which statement accurately describes who may arrest a principal on a bond in Ohio?

• A. Only law enforcement may arrest.
• B. Only licensed bail agents may arrest.
• C. Law enforcement or qualified/licensed surety bail bond agents meeting notice/contract requirements.
• D. The court may appoint any citizen to arrest.

Answer: (C)

In Ohio, enforcing a bond can be done by law enforcement or by a licensed surety bail bond agent who has a valid contract and has met the required notice provisions. When a defendant violates bond conditions or misses court, the police can arrest them as part of their duties, and a bail bondsman can arrest the principal too—but only if the agent is properly licensed and the bond contract is active with the required notice to the court. This dual authority ensures proper enforcement with appropriate oversight. The other options miss one side of the authorized group or propose a citizen arrest, which Ohio law does not provide for this context.

In Ohio, enforcing a bond can be done by law enforcement or by a licensed surety bail bond agent who has a valid contract and has met the required notice provisions. When a defendant violates bond conditions or misses court, the police can arrest them as part of their duties, and a bail bondsman can arrest the principal too—but only if the agent is properly licensed and the bond contract is active with the required notice to the court. This dual authority ensures proper enforcement with appropriate oversight. The other options miss one side of the authorized group or propose a citizen arrest, which Ohio law does not provide for this context.