Which of the following are the three elements of an arrest?

• A. Authority of officer; Seizure of the person; Person understands they have been arrested
• B. Authority of officer; Seizure of the person; Officer's belief that a crime is or has been committed
• C. Use of force; Detention; Personal consent
• D. Warrant; Custodial care; Notification of rights

Answer: (A)

Arrest hinges on three essential pieces: the officer has lawful authority to act, there is a seizure or taking into custody of the person, and the person understands they have been arrested (they are not free to leave). The authority plus seizure establish that a formal act of restraint is occurring under law, while the arrestee’s understanding ensures the person knows they are under restraint. A warrant isn’t always required, and rights advisement comes after custody in many situations, but those elements aren’t part of what defines an arrest itself. The other options mix in elements that aren’t required components of an arrest, such as the officer’s belief about a crime, use of force, consent, or a warrant.