Under what condition can an officer make a warrantless arrest for a misdemeanor in Oklahoma?

An officer in Oklahoma can make a warrantless arrest for a misdemeanor when the offense occurs in the officer's presence. This principle is grounded in the idea that law enforcement must respond immediately to criminal acts they directly observe, ensuring public safety and maintaining order. When an officer witnesses a misdemeanor being committed — such as public intoxication or minor assault — they have the authority to take immediate action without needing a warrant.

This approach is designed to empower officers to act swiftly in response to situations that could escalate if there’s a delay in obtaining a warrant. Observing the crime in direct consequence allows law enforcement to have firsthand knowledge of the offense and the circumstances surrounding it, making the arrest more justifiable.

Other conditions given in the choices do not align with the legal framework established for warrantless arrests. For instance, merely having a witness present or being instructed by a superior officer does not grant an officer the authority to act without a warrant for a misdemeanor crime. Furthermore, although a routine traffic stop may lead to a misdemeanor arrest, it is not a guarantee that an arrest can occur without a warrant unless the officer observes a crime firsthand during that stop.