Can German police arrest U.S. personnel for violating German laws?

U.S. personnel in Germany are subject to both U.S. military law and German law under the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between the U.S. and Germany. While military police have authority over certain offenses, German police can indeed arrest U.S. military personnel if they violate German laws outside of a U.S. military installation. This applies to a wide range of infractions, ranging from traffic violations to more serious criminal offenses.

The agreement facilitates cooperation between U.S. military authorities and German law enforcement, ensuring that U.S. personnel adhere to local regulations while also respecting the jurisdiction of German law enforcement. This jurisdictional understanding is vital for maintaining good relations and ensuring community standards are upheld.