Under what condition may an officer arrest rather than issue a citation for a minor misdemeanor?

An officer may arrest rather than issue a citation for a minor misdemeanor primarily when the offender refuses to sign the citation. This condition is significant because signing the citation is often a way for the individual to acknowledge receipt of the citation and agree to appear in court. When someone refuses to sign, it indicates noncompliance and can escalate the situation, leading the officer to determine that an arrest is necessary in order to ensure that the individual will face the judicial system.

In contrast, being accompanied by a parent or guardian, having identification, or promising to appear in court typically do not provide grounds for arrest. In fact, such circumstances would usually indicate compliance and a willingness to follow through with the law, which supports the use of a citation rather than arrest.