POCATELLO — Did you know that in 2019, the Idaho Supreme Court ruled that warrantless arrests for misdemeanors not committed in an officer’s presence are unconstitutional? This decision is known as the State v. Clarke ruling, or simply the Clarke ruling.

Recently, the Pocatello Police Department has received questions about why someone was not arrested or why an individual was allowed to leave the scene of an investigation. This ruling plays a significant role in those situations.

Prior to the Clarke decision, officers could make arrests for certain misdemeanors — such as battery, domestic battery or DUI — if there was sufficient probable cause, even if the offense did not occur in their presence. Following the ruling, officers are generally limited to issuing a misdemeanor citation with a court date or requesting an after-hours warrant from an on-call judge.

The police department understands this can be frustrating and, at times, concerning — especially in situations involving domestic violence. There are instances where a warrant cannot be obtained, and an arrest cannot be made immediately. In those cases, officers take additional steps to support victim safety.

In domestic violence situations, officers offer connections to advocacy resources and share information with the Pocatello Police Department's victim witness coordinator, who helps guide victims through the court process and available services.

In some DUI-related situations, if an officer does not directly observe a person in physical control of a vehicle, there may be limitations on enforcement actions, including towing. While officers take steps to reduce risk, they are not always able to remain on scene due to other calls for service.

This ruling has changed how the police are able to respond in certain situations, and they recognize the impact it has on the community.

Please know that the department remains committed to serving and protecting the people of Pocatello with fairness, transparency and professionalism.

Statistics from a Boise State University study that provide additional context on this issue are available to view.