<i>An arrest is the threshold for controlling someone&#x27;s legitimate actions</i><p>No it&#x27;s not.  You can be legally detained.<p>For example, if a cop stops you for speeding, he won&#x27;t arrest you, but you will be detained until he gets the information he needs and gives you a ticket.<p>That&#x27;s why you&#x27;re supposed to ask &quot;Am I free to go?&quot;.  If you are legally detained, the answer is &quot;no&quot;.