What is an arrest?

What is an arrest?

• A. The taking of a person into custody that he may be held to answer for a crime
• B. A voluntary interview with law enforcement
• C. A civil process serving a summons
• D. A traffic stop

Answer: (A)

An arrest is taking a person into custody so they may be held to answer for a crime. This means restraining the person’s freedom of movement in a way that prevents them from leaving while the authorities determine charges. It can be done by a police officer (usually with probable cause, and sometimes with a warrant) or, in certain situations, by a private person authorized by law. This is different from a voluntary interview, where the person is not in custody; a civil process such as serving a summons; or a routine traffic stop, which does not become an arrest unless another crime or custodial condition is involved.

An arrest is taking a person into custody so they may be held to answer for a crime. This means restraining the person’s freedom of movement in a way that prevents them from leaving while the authorities determine charges. It can be done by a police officer (usually with probable cause, and sometimes with a warrant) or, in certain situations, by a private person authorized by law. This is different from a voluntary interview, where the person is not in custody; a civil process such as serving a summons; or a routine traffic stop, which does not become an arrest unless another crime or custodial condition is involved.