What is the difference between "detention" and "arrest"?

The distinction between "detention" and "arrest" is significant in law enforcement and legal contexts. Detention refers to the temporary holding of an individual for questioning or investigation without necessarily charging them with a crime. This type of holding is often based on reasonable suspicion, which is a lower standard than what is needed for an arrest.

In contrast, an arrest involves taking someone into custody based on probable cause, which means there is sufficient reason to believe that the individual has committed a crime. This requires a higher level of certainty compared to the reasonable suspicion that justifies detention. Understanding this difference is crucial for security personnel, as it impacts their authority and the procedures they must follow when interacting with individuals in various situations.

Recognizing the nuances of these terms helps security guards operate within the legal framework and protects the rights of individuals they may encounter. Properly applying these concepts is necessary to ensure that actions taken are legally compliant and justifiable.