Before making an arrest, which factor should NOT be considered?

When making an arrest, the consideration of the number of witnesses present generally relates to the accountability and potential scrutiny of the arresting officer's actions. While having more witnesses might provide evidence and support for the arrest, it should not be a primary concern when assessing the situation to determine if an arrest is warranted. Instead, the focus should be on the immediate circumstances of the suspect and the nature of the offense.

In contrast, factors such as the physical size of the suspect, whether the suspect is armed, and if the offense occurred on property being protected are crucial in assessing the safety and legality of the arrest situation. The physical size of a suspect can impact how an officer approaches the situation, particularly regarding the risk of physical confrontation. Knowing if a suspect is armed is vital for officer safety and the safety of others nearby, as it directly informs the level of force that may be necessary to conduct the arrest. Additionally, recognizing if the offense occurred on protected property adds another layer of justification for an arrest, as it ties the suspect's actions to a direct violation of rules or laws governing that specific area.

Thus, disregarding the number of witnesses is appropriate within the context of evaluating immediate threats and legal justifications for an arrest.