What power allows police officers to deprive individuals of their liberty through arrest?

The ability of police officers to deprive individuals of their liberty through arrest is fundamentally rooted in what is known as "Arrest Authority." This authority is derived from various legal frameworks, including statutory law, constitutional provisions, and case law that grant officers the power to detain individuals suspected of committing a crime.

Arrest authority is critical in law enforcement as it allows officers to take necessary action to maintain public safety and uphold the law. This authority must be exercised within the bounds of the law, adhering strictly to protocols that protect the rights of individuals. Proper training and understanding of these legal parameters ensure that officers act justly and lawfully, respecting citizens' rights while performing their duties.

The options that mention "excessive force," "coercive force," and "peacekeeping powers" do not accurately define the specific legal power that enables an officer to make an arrest. Excessive force pertains to the use of too much physical power when making an arrest, coercive force refers to using threats or intimidation to compel an action, and peacekeeping powers generally relate to maintaining public order rather than the specific authority for making arrests. Hence, the correct identification of this power as "Arrest Authority" underscores the legal premise underpinning law enforcement actions.