what is a peace officer

A peace officer is a public or private sector employee whose duties primarily involve law enforcement authority. The term can vary from state to state, but it usually means a position that carries a badge, has the power to arrest, and also carries a firearm. Police officers, deputy sheriffs, state troopers, and special agents are all examples of peace officer positions. In some jurisdictions, the term peace officer is interchangeable with law enforcement officer or police officer, but in others, peace officer is a separate legal designation with quasi-police powers. Peace officers may also be able to perform all duties that a law enforcement officer is tasked with, but may or may not be armed with a weapon.