In radio terminology, how does a contact differ from an arrest?

• A. A contact is a casual inquiry.
• B. A contact is an interaction or inquiry; an arrest requires custody and is a separate action.
• C. An arrest is a casual inquiry.
• D. A contact means the subject is fleeing.

Answer: (B)

In radio terminology, the distinction hinges on custody. A contact is any interaction or inquiry with a person that does not involve taking them into custody. It can be talking to someone, asking questions, or verifying information, and the subject is not under restraint.

An arrest is a separate action that involves placing the person in custody. When an arrest occurs, the officer detains the individual, which may lead to handcuffing, processing, and booking. The arrest is not just another step of the same interaction—it’s a distinct, custody-based action.

That’s why the statement that a contact is an interaction or inquiry and an arrest requires custody and is a separate action is correct. The other options mischaracterize what a contact or an arrest involve; for example, a casual inquiry isn’t the full scope of a contact, and an arrest isn’t just a casual inquiry.