Which scenario is an example of detention rather than arrest?

• A. A brief stop and investigation based on reasonable suspicion.
• B. Being taken into custody with probable cause.
• C. Full custodial interrogation.
• D. A voluntary walk with consent.

Answer: (A)

Detention is a temporary, limited seizure used to investigate something that raises reasonable suspicion, without moving into full custody. A brief stop and investigation based on reasonable suspicion fits this: the officer stops the person to explore whether a crime is afoot, the encounter is brief and focused, and the person is not in full custody. The person is not yet under probable cause, and they’re not being formally arrested.

The other scenarios cross into arrest or non-detention. Being taken into custody with probable cause means an arrest, since there’s enough evidence to justify formal custody. Full custodial interrogation happens after an arrest, when the person is in custody and being questioned. A voluntary walk with consent is a consensual encounter, not detention, assuming the consent is voluntary and there’s no coercion.