What can law enforcement officers do during a voluntary contact?

During a voluntary contact, law enforcement officers are permitted to display their authority and ask questions, as this interaction is typically characterized by the individual having the freedom to leave at any time. The nature of a voluntary contact means that the officer is engaging with the individual in a way that does not involve coercion or detention. The individual can choose whether or not to respond to the questions or engage further with the officer.

Displaying authority does not equate to coercive tactics; instead, it might involve the officer identifying themselves and explaining the reasoning for their contact. This process can establish a rapport or gather information based on the individual's willingness to participate in the conversation.

In contrast, the other options involve actions that would not align with the principles of voluntary engagement. Forcing compliance or conducting a search without consent would require probable cause or reasonable suspicion, which are not applicable in a purely voluntary contact. Similarly, detaining an individual without cause contradicts the voluntary nature of the interaction, as such actions would limit the individual's freedom.