What is the process of taking persons into custody for charging them with a crime called?

The process of taking persons into custody for charging them with a crime is referred to as arrest. An arrest involves the legal authority, usually by law enforcement, to take an individual into custody based on probable cause that they have committed a crime. This process activates a series of legal rights for the individual, such as the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel.

In legal terms, an arrest signifies a more formal step than simply stopping an individual for questioning. It entails the intention to bring the arrested person before a court to answer to charges. The precise nature of the arrest, including how it is conducted and reported, adheres to specific legal standards to ensure the rights of the individual are respected.

The other options refer to related but distinct concepts. Seizure often pertains to the taking of property or evidence without needing to arrest an individual. Detention typically refers to the temporary holding of a person by law enforcement for investigative purposes but does not involve taking the person into custody for formal charges. A citation is a document issued for less serious offenses that allows individuals to appear in court, without necessitating their arrest. Understanding these differences helps clarify why 'arrest' is the accurate term for this process.