According to OCGA 42-4-14, what is the duty of a law enforcement officer regarding consular notification?

The duty of a law enforcement officer regarding consular notification, as stated in OCGA 42-4-14, is to make notification to a consulate. This provision is designed to ensure that individuals who are arrested are afforded certain rights under international law, particularly when they are foreign nationals. When a foreign national is detained, they have the right to have their consulate notified of their arrest. This serves several purposes, including allowing the consulate to provide assistance and ensure that the individual’s rights are respected throughout the legal process.

Understanding this duty is vital, as it underscores the importance of international treaties and agreements concerning the treatment of foreign nationals. While informing the arrestee of their legal rights, providing food or water, and arranging transportation are all important responsibilities of law enforcement, none are specifically related to the obligation to notify a consulate as required by law.