Which of the following best defines "civilian" in the context of law enforcement?

The best definition of "civilian" in the context of law enforcement is a non-military person. In law enforcement, the term "civilian" typically refers to individuals who do not hold a position in the military or law enforcement agencies and do not have the authority to enforce laws or make arrests. This distinction is important as it highlights the roles of various individuals in society, particularly in relation to those who are trained and authorized to carry firearms and perform law enforcement duties.

A non-military person is an accurate representation of civilians, as they are often involved in various aspects of community life, including supporting roles within law enforcement, such as administrative or support staff. This understanding is crucial because it delineates the responsibilities and expectations for civilians versus those who serve in law enforcement or military capacities.

In contrast, the other options involve elements that relate to law enforcement roles or government employment. A person with law enforcement authority would be an officer or agent, while a local political figure might have influence over law enforcement policies but is not defined as a civilian. Lastly, a person employed by the government could include many roles, not solely within a law enforcement context; therefore, this option does not specify that the person must be non-military.