prearrest

/priˈɑrɛst/

Definitions

1. noun

An event or action occurring before an arrest, especially one that leads to an arrest.

“The police report detailed the prearrest investigation that led to the suspect’s capture.”

2. verb

To take action or conduct an investigation that leads to an arrest.

“The detectives prearrested the suspect after gathering sufficient evidence.”

Synonyms

  • arrest proceedings
  • preliminary investigation

Antonyms

  • post-arrest
  • post-sentence