Legal Definitions - officer of the peace

An officer of the peace is a civil officer appointed to maintain public order and tranquility. This can include police officers, sheriffs, and other public officials designated by authority to keep the peace and arrest individuals suspected of committing crimes.

For example, a police officer who responds to a disturbance call and arrests a person for disorderly conduct is acting as an officer of the peace. Similarly, a sheriff who serves a warrant and arrests a suspect is also an officer of the peace.

It's important to note that the term can also include judges who hear criminal cases or other public officials, such as mayors, who are designated as peace officers for specific purposes.