What characterizes a consensual encounter between an officer and a person?

A consensual encounter between an officer and an individual is characterized primarily by the individual's feeling of freedom to leave. In such encounters, there is no coercion, no use of force, and the person does not experience a formal detention. This means that the individual can choose to end the interaction at any time without any negative consequences.

The essence of a consensual encounter lies in the voluntary nature of the contact; the individual has the right to walk away if they wish. This aspect is crucial as it distinguishes consensual encounters from other types of interactions, such as investigative stops or detentions, where the individual may not feel free to leave due to the presence of authority and the circumstances surrounding the encounter. Understanding this definition is vital for law enforcement officers, as it sets the boundaries for lawful police conduct and protects individuals' rights during such engagements.