What should an officer do if a person refuses to sign a citation?

When a person refuses to sign a citation, the appropriate response is to proceed with the arrest procedure. Signing a citation is an acknowledgment of the offense and a promise to appear in court. If an individual refuses to sign, it may indicate non-compliance with the law, and the officer often has the authority to take further action, which can include arresting the individual.

This response is grounded in the legal principle that signing a citation is a critical part of the process of addressing traffic violations or minor offenses. If the person refuses to sign, the officer must ensure that the situation is managed according to protocol. Proceeding with the arrest allows law enforcement to maintain order and enforce the law, ensuring that the refusal to comply does not undermine the legal process.

The other options, such as allowing the person to go without consequences, requesting backup immediately, or simply giving a warning, might not address the legal obligations and responsibilities that an officer has in such a scenario. By proceeding with the arrest procedure, the officer is taking a measured and lawful approach to a refusal that could potentially disrupt the order of the enforcement process.