What distinguishes a contact from a detention?

A contact distinguishes itself from a detention primarily through the level of freedom afforded to the individual involved. When a person is in contact with law enforcement, they are free to leave and have the autonomy to end the interaction at any time. This type of encounter is often voluntary and does not impose any restrictions on the person's movement. Officers may engage in contact to ask questions or gather information, but it does not compel the individual to remain present or to respond.

In contrast, a detention implies that law enforcement has a reasonable suspicion that the person is involved in criminal activity, leading to a temporary restriction of their freedom. During a detention, individuals are not free to leave and must comply with the officer's commands. Therefore, the essential difference lies in the person's ability to move freely; a contact maintains that freedom, whereas a detention restricts it.