What is the legal term for confiscating a person’s property due to criminal acts?

The legal term for confiscating a person’s property due to criminal acts is "seizure." This term specifically refers to the act of law enforcement taking possession of property or assets that are believed to be involved in criminal activity or that have been obtained through illegal means. Seizures can occur during criminal investigations, and they are typically governed by specific laws and regulations to ensure they are carried out legally.

To elaborate further, during a seizure, authorities may take items such as drugs, weapons, or cash that are linked to criminal enterprises. This process often involves obtaining a warrant, which is a legal document that allows law enforcement to conduct the seizure under constitutional protections.

In contrast, the other choices relate to different concepts within the legal system. An arrest pertains to the taking of a person into custody, typically due to suspicion of committing a crime. Detainment refers to holding a person in custody temporarily for questioning or investigation, without necessarily charging them with an offense. Surrender is usually a voluntary act where an individual hands over themselves or property, but it does not carry the legal enforcement aspects associated with a seizure.