What does "arrest" mean in the context of law enforcement?

In the context of law enforcement, the term "arrest" specifically refers to the act of bringing an individual into custody for legal action. This process involves law enforcement officers taking a person into control based on suspected involvement in a crime or violation of the law. An arrest typically means that the individual is restrained for the purpose of taking them to jail or court, where they will face legal proceedings regarding the alleged offense.

This definition captures the essential legal implications of an arrest, which include the rights of the individual being detained, the necessity for probable cause, and the formal procedures that must be followed by law enforcement. The concept is distinct from issuing warnings, conducting investigations, or placing someone under surveillance, as those actions do not necessarily involve taking a person into custody. They may be components of the law enforcement process leading up to an arrest, but they do not carry the same legal authority or implications as an actual arrest.