What is a key factor to establish concern for the safety of onlookers during arrests?

The presence of children within the group is a critical factor when establishing concern for the safety of onlookers during arrests. This concern arises because children are particularly vulnerable and may not fully understand the situation unfolding around them. In a high-stress environment like an arrest, where actions can escalate quickly, the potential for emotional distress or harm to children increases significantly. Officers must always factor in the safety and well-being of minors, as they may require special consideration to ensure their emotional and physical safety during chaotic incidents.

While factors such as the number of onlookers, the suspect's history, and onlookers’ unexpected behavior can influence the situation, they don’t carry the same inherent urgency and impact on the immediate safety of vulnerable individuals like children do. Ensuring that children are removed from possibly harmful situations or that they are protected is a priority, making this aspect particularly vital for law enforcement during an arrest.