How is "entrapment" defined in law enforcement contexts?

Entrapment is defined in law enforcement contexts as a defense that asserts law enforcement induced an individual to commit a crime that they otherwise would not have committed. This legal concept is rooted in the idea that the government should not be allowed to encourage or create criminal behavior in individuals who are not predisposed to it.

When invoking entrapment, the accused typically needs to demonstrate that the law enforcement officers involved persuaded, coerced, or lured them into committing the offense, which might not have occurred without such inducement. This defense is built on the principle of fairness and protecting individuals from government overreach in criminal cases.

In contrast, the other options provided do not accurately represent the definition of entrapment. For instance, the notion of a strategy for police to act outside the law is contradictory to the principles guiding lawful policing and does not reflect the fundamental concept of entrapment. Similarly, a legal process involving plea agreements does not relate to the inducement of crime but rather to negotiating outcomes within the legal system. Finally, gathering evidence against suspects refers to investigative techniques and processes, which do not encapsulate the nuances of entrapment as a defense in court.