Per DC Code 23-582: (b) A private person may arrest another — (1) who he has probable cause to believe is committing in his presence — (A) a felony; or (B) an offense enumerated in section 23-581(a)(2); or (2) in aid of a law enforcement officer or special policeman, or other person authorized by law to make an arrest. (c) Any person making an arrest pursuant to this section shall deliver the person arrested to a law enforcement officer without unreasonable delay.

Per DC Code 23-581: (A)(2) The offenses referred to in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (1) are the following: (A) The following offenses specified in the Act entitled “An Act to establish a code of law for the District of Columbia”, approved March 3, 1901, and listed in the following table: Offense: Specified in - Assault section 806 (D.C. Code, sec. 22-404). Unlawful entry section 824 (D.C. Code, sec. 22-3302). Malicious burning, destruction or injury of another's property section 848 (D.C. Code, sec. 22-303).

INTERPRETATION: If someone assaults us (mace, physical attack, blowhorn in my ears), we can lawfully arrest them (tie them up with zip ties behind the back), but we must immediately turn them over the law enforcement per 23-582(B)(c). Request the police file a report, share video evidence you have (video, witnesses, etc).

Do not start the fight, but end it if assaulted.

If we have any DC lawyers in this group, please chime in and state your experience!!!

References: https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/code/sections/23-581.html https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/code/sections/23-582.html#