The legality of an officer arresting someone for verbal abuse and threatening their life would depend on the specific laws and regulations in the jurisdiction where the incident occurred. In many places, verbally abusing or making threats against a law enforcement officer can be considered a crime.
Police officers have the authority to detain individuals if they have reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has been committed or that someone's safety is at risk. Threatening an officer's life can be seen as a serious offense, and it's likely to result in immediate action by law enforcement to protect the officer and the public.
However, it's essential to remember that each situation is unique, and the specific circumstances and evidence available at the time will play a significant role in determining whether an arrest is justified. If you find yourself in such a situation, it's crucial to remain calm and cooperative. If you believe your rights have been violated or you are facing unjust charges, you should seek legal counsel to understand and protect your rights adequately.