What term refers to the act of taking someone into custody by legal authority?

The term that refers to the act of taking someone into custody by legal authority is "arrest." An arrest is a legal procedure where law enforcement officials take an individual into custody, often because they are suspected of committing a crime. This action typically involves the person being informed of the charges against them, as well as their rights, which is a critical aspect of the criminal justice process.

Detention generally involves holding someone in custody but does not necessarily imply that they are being formally charged with a crime. Arraignment is a legal proceeding where the accused is brought before a court to hear the charges and enter a plea. Interrogation is the process of questioning a suspect or witness, which may occur after an arrest but is distinct from the act of physically taking someone into custody. Understanding these terms is essential in the context of law enforcement procedures and the criminal justice system.