What is the definition of a 'peace officer'?

The definition of a 'peace officer' encompasses individuals who have the authority to enforce laws, maintain peace, and promote safety within the community. This includes police officers, who are fully sworn in and given the power to enforce criminal law, as well as certain security personnel who may have specific roles under legislation or regulations that allow them to carry out law enforcement functions.

The role of a peace officer is vital in ensuring public safety, as they are trained to respond to incidents, investigate crimes, and uphold the law. This authority is usually granted through specific legal provisions that outline the powers, responsibilities, and limitations of peace officers, ensuring they operate within the bounds of the law for the welfare of the community.

While the other options highlight important roles related to law and order or community safety, they do not capture the full scope of the enforcement aspect that is integral to the definition of a peace officer. For instance, government officials and individuals responsible for civil matters may play supportive roles but do not inherently possess the same enforcement power as a peace officer. Similarly, negotiation and mediation are valuable skills but do not define the core duties associated with peace officers.