Legally, what does the term "arrest" imply?

The term "arrest" legally implies a deprivation of freedom of movement significantly. When an individual is arrested, law enforcement takes actions that limit the person's ability to move freely, typically by physically restraining them or informing them that they are not free to leave. This foundational aspect of arrest is critical because it establishes the authority of law enforcement to compel an individual to respond to legal processes, often tied to criminal accusations.

The concept goes beyond mere temporary detention, which might not involve significant restrictions on movement or could occur in situations like stop-and-frisk scenarios. Searching without a warrant does not inherently constitute an arrest, as searches can occur under various circumstances that do not involve the person being detained. Additionally, interrogation under custody occurs after an arrest has already taken place; it refers to the questioning of a suspect who is in custody, which is a separate and subsequent aspect of the criminal process.

In summary, the essence of an arrest lies in the legal context of significantly restricting an individual's freedom, which is a pivotal element in distinguishing arrest from lesser interactions with law enforcement.