What is an order issued by a law enforcement officer to lawfully detain an individual called?

The term that best describes an order issued by a law enforcement officer to lawfully detain an individual is an arrest warrant. An arrest warrant is a legal document approved by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement to arrest and take an individual into custody, typically based on probable cause that the individual has committed a crime or is about to commit one. This process ensures that the rights of individuals are protected, as it requires a judicial oversight before a detention can occur.

While the other terms may be related to law enforcement or legal processes, they serve different purposes. A search warrant allows police to search a specific location for evidence of a crime, while a citation is typically issued for minor offenses or infractions, directing an individual to appear in court. A detention order, while it indicates a temporary holding of an individual, is less commonly used in the context of formal legal processes when compared to an arrest warrant. Therefore, the most accurate answer is arrest warrant, as it specifically pertains to the lawful detention of individuals.