South Carolina § 17-13-20 - Additional circumstances when citizens may arrest; means to be used.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 17-13-20 — Additional circumstances when citizens may arrest; means to be used., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17-13-20. Additional circumstances when citizens may arrest; means to be used.
A citizen may arrest a person in the nighttime by efficient means as the darkness and the probability of escape render necessary, even if the life of the person should be taken, when the person:
(a) has committed a felony;
(b) has entered a dwelling house without express or implied permission;
(c) has broken or is breaking into an outhouse with a view to plunder;
(d) has in his possession stolen property; or
(e) being under circumstances which raise just suspicion of his design to steal or to commit some felony, flees when he is hailed.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 17-252; 1952 Code SECTION 17-252; 1942 Code SECTION 908; 1932 Code SECTION 908; Cr. P. '22 SECTION 2; Cr. C. '12 SECTION 2; Cr. C. '02 SECTION 2; G. S. 2617; R. S. 2; 1866 (13) 406; 1995 Act No. 53, SECTION 1.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 17-13-20
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 17-13-20 cover?
Section 17-13-20 ("Additional circumstances when citizens may arrest; means to be used.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. 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 South Carolina § 17-13-20?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 17-13-20" (South Carolina). 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 South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 17-13-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina 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 South Carolina.