In California, a "peace officer" is defined under various statutes and typically includes individuals who have law enforcement authority. The primary definition is found in the California Penal Code, specifically Sections [[Cal. Pen. Code § 830]] through [[Cal. Pen. Code § 832|832]]. These sections outline who qualifies as a peace officer and their specific powers and responsibilities. Common examples of peace officers include: 1. **Police Officers**: Members of municipal police departments. 2. **Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs**: Officers in county sheriff's departments. 3. **California Highway Patrol Officers**: Officers responsible for highway and traffic enforcement. 4. **State and Local Correctional Officers**: Individuals working in state prisons and local jails. 5. **University and School District Police Officers**: Officers working for school districts and university police departments. 6. **State Park Rangers**: Officers tasked with enforcing laws in state parks. Peace officers in California have the authority to enforce state laws, make arrests, and carry firearms, among other duties, depending on their specific role and jurisdiction. The term is broadly used to encompass various roles in law enforcement, each defined by specific statutory provisions and job descriptions.