Stop the progress of

The answer to the crossword question “Stop the progress of” is “ARREST.” The word “arrest” can be used as an verb to mean to stop or hinder something from progressing or developing. It is often used in legal contexts when a person is detained or brought into custody by law enforcement. In a more general sense, “arrest” can refer to putting a sudden stop to something or interrupting its course. Therefore, in the context of the crossword puzzle, “arrest” is the correct answer for the clue “Stop the progress of.”