What is the definition of custody in the context of arrest by a peace officer?

In the context of an arrest by a peace officer, custody is defined as legal possession of a person. This means that when an individual is taken into custody, they are no longer free to leave and are under the control of law enforcement. This legal control implies that the officer has the authority to enforce the law over the individual, typically following an arrest where probable cause exists.

Understanding this definition is crucial because it underscores the legal implications of arrest and the rights of individuals once they are in custody. The concept of custody involves more than a mere physical restraint; it encompasses the legal authority exerted by law enforcement which carries significant weight in terms of legal rights, responsibilities, and procedures that must be followed post-arrest.

Other options, while related to detaining a person, do not appropriately encapsulate the full legal definition that is critical in law enforcement contexts. For instance, a mode of transport or an informal restraint does not convey the legal ramifications and authority involved in an official custody situation. Temporary detention might suggest a brief stop, but it lacks the full legal implications associated with being under arrest and in custody. Therefore, the definition as legal possession accurately reflects the core meaning within law enforcement scenarios.