Last Updated on February 17, 2025
Basic security guard training Unit 3 Lesson (B)
Security guards play a vital role in maintaining safety and enforcing rules, but their authority is often misunderstood. The power of arrest a security guard does not hold the same as law enforcement, and knowing when and how to make an arrest is crucial to staying within legal boundaries.
In this Lesson, You would Learn:
- What “The Power of Arrest Security Guard” Really Means
- Legal Differences Between Security Guards and Police Officers
- Detention vs. Arrest: What Security Guards Can and Cannot Do
- Proper Arrest Procedures for Security Personnel
- Legal Risks and Best Practices for Handling Arrests
What is The Power of Arrest?
The power of arrest security guard refers to the legal authority a security officer has to detain or arrest a person suspected of committing a crime.
However, unlike police officers, security guards operate under citizen’s arrest laws, meaning they must witness the crime or have reasonable grounds to detain someone.
Key Point: Security guards cannot arrest someone based on suspicion alone. There must be clear evidence that a crime has occurred.
Common Criminal Offenses Security Guards Deal With
Security guards typically encounter crimes related to property protection and public safety. Some of the most frequent offenses include:
- Theft or Shoplifting – Stealing merchandise or attempting to leave without paying.
- Trespassing – Unauthorized entry onto restricted property.
- Assault – Physical fights, threats, or harassment.
- Mischief – Vandalism, property damage, or tampering with data.
- Weapons Offenses – Carrying or using a prohibited weapon.
- Fraud – Forgery, identity theft, or counterfeit money use.
Important: Security guards should always report crimes to the police and only arrest if necessary.
Arrest vs. Detention: The Guards Must Understand
Security guards must understand the difference between detaining someone for questioning and making an arrest.
| Detention | Arrest |
|---|---|
| Temporarily holding a suspect to investigate a crime. | Taking someone into custody for a crime. |
| No formal charges. | Requires clear evidence (probable cause). |
| Must be brief and based on reasonable suspicion. | Must be based on direct knowledge of the crime. |
Overstepping these boundaries can lead to legal consequences for the security guard.
Arresting Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide
If an arrest is necessary, security guards must follow proper legal procedures:
1. Identify Yourself
- Clearly state your name, position, and employer:
- “I am [Your Name], a security officer with [Company Name].”
2. Declare the Arrest
- Say clearly and firmly:
- “You are under arrest.”
3. State the Legal Reason
- Inform the suspect why they are being arrested:
- “You are under arrest for theft under Section 22 of the Criminal Code.”
4. Contact Law Enforcement
- Security guards must hand the suspect over to the police immediately.
- A security guard’s arrest is NOT valid until the police take custody.
5. Inform the Suspect of Their Rights
- Tell the suspect they have the right to legal counsel:
- “You have the right to contact a lawyer. Would you like to speak to one?”
- If the suspect is a minor, notify their parent or guardian immediately.
6. Document Everything
Keep detailed records, including:
- Time and location of the arrest
- Actions and statements of the suspect
- Witness information
- Any surveillance footage or evidence collected
Note: Proper documentation protects security guards from legal issues.
Legal Risks of Misusing |The Power of Arrest
Security guards must stay within legal limits when making an arrest. Common mistakes include:
- False Arrest: Arresting someone without clear evidence can lead to lawsuits.
- Excessive Force: Only minimum force should be used to prevent harm.
- Unlawful Searches: Security guards cannot search a suspect unless they give consent.
Golden Rule: When in doubt, call the police instead of risking legal trouble.
Real-Life Scenarios | And Your Action
Shoplifting Incident
- Scenario: A security guard witnesses a person hiding merchandise.
- Action: The guard detains them, states the charge, and calls the police.
- Not Allowed: Searching the person without consent.
Trespassing on Private Property
- Scenario: A security guard finds someone loitering on private property after hours.
- Action: Warn them to leave. If they refuse, detain them for trespassing and call the police.
- Not Allowed: Physically restraining them unless they pose a threat.
Assault at a Public Event
- Scenario: A security guard sees a person physically attacking another.
- Action: Intervene, separate them, declare the arrest, and wait for the police.
- Not Allowed: Using excessive force unless necessary for self-defense.
Final Summary: Key Takeaways on
- Security guards have limited arrest powers under citizen’s arrest laws.
- Detention is different from arrest—know when each applies.
- A legal arrest requires clear evidence and proper procedure.
- All arrests must be reported to the police immediately.
- Force should be used only as a last resort.
- Accurate documentation protects security guards from legal risks.
By mastering these principles, security professionals can maintain safety, prevent crime, and operate within legal boundaries.
Remember: A security guard’s role is to observe, report, and deter—not to replace law enforcement. Stay professional, follow the law, and prioritize public safety.
