Pennsylvania § 5203 - Imposition of restraint.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5203 — Imposition of restraint., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5203. Imposition of restraint.
(a) Enlisted personnel.--An enlisted person subject to this part may be ordered into arrest or confinement by any commissioned officer by an order, oral or written, delivered in person or through other persons subject to this part or through any person authorized by this part to apprehend persons. A commanding officer may authorize warrant officers, petty officers or noncommissioned officers to order enlisted members of his command or subject to his authority into arrest or confinement.
(b) Commissioned officers and warrant officers.--A commissioned officer or a warrant officer subject to this part may be ordered into arrest or confinement only by a commanding officer to whose authority he is subject, by an order, oral or written, delivered in person or by another commissioned officer. The authority to order such persons into arrest or confinement may not be delegated.
(c) Probable cause.--No person subject to this part may be ordered into arrest or confinement except for probable cause.
(d) Construction of section.--This section does not limit the authority of persons authorized to apprehend offenders to secure the custody of an alleged offender until proper authority may be notified.
(e) Definitions.--As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings given to them in this subsection unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Arrest." The restraint of a person subject to this part by an order, not imposed as a punishment for an offense, directing him to remain within certain specified limits.
"Confinement." The physical restraint of a person subject to this part.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 5203
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5203 cover?
Section 5203 ("Imposition of restraint.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 5203?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5203" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 5203 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.