1. legal orders authorizing the continued custody of a person already in detention
Usage: legal term
2. people who detain or hold others in custody

Examples

• The immigration detainers prevented the suspects from being released on bail.
• Federal detainers were placed on the prisoners awaiting trial.
• The judge reviewed several detainers before making his decision.
• Local authorities honored the detainers issued by federal agencies.
• The detainers kept the individuals in custody despite completing their sentences.
• Prison officials processed multiple detainers that morning.