How is "arrest" defined in the context of crime?

The definition of "arrest" in the context of crime primarily refers to the act of apprehending a person suspected of a crime. This process typically involves law enforcement officials taking an individual into custody based on probable cause, which is the reasonable belief that the person has committed a criminal offense.

An arrest signifies a pivotal moment in the criminal justice process, as it represents both the acknowledgement of a potential crime and the initiation of legal action against the suspect. During this process, various rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel, come into effect for the individual being arrested.

While some of the other options touch on aspects of the criminal justice system, they do not accurately capture the essence of what constitutes an arrest. For instance, a formal accusation by a prosecutor is known as an indictment or charge but does not involve taking an individual into custody. Similarly, detaining someone without charges can occur in specific situations, such as investigative holds, but it doesn't align with the standard legal definition of arrest. Conducting background checks pertains to the evaluation of an individual's criminal history but does not involve apprehending or taking someone into custody.