What Security Guards Can and Can’t Do
London Security College
September 27, 2024
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By London Security College
Can Security Guards Detain You?
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Important Tips for Security Officers
Today, we’re discussing a crucial topic that every security officer should understand: the ins and outs of detaining someone. Knowing your legal boundaries can help you handle situations confidently and lawfully. Let’s break it down!
Understanding Your Legal Authority
Understanding Your Legal Authority
1. Know Your Rights and Limits
As a security guard, you don’t have the same powers as police officers. Your authority to detain someone is limited and primarily based on a “citizen’s arrest.” This means you can only detain someone if you’ve directly witnessed a crime being committed. It’s essential to know this framework to avoid any potential legal trouble
2. Reasonable Grounds for Detention
To detain someone legally, you must have reasonable grounds to believe they’ve committed an offence. Just being suspicious isn’t enough. Based on what you’ve observed, it would be best to have an apparent, justifiable reason.
Procedures for Detaining Someone
Procedures for Detaining Someone
3. Use of Force
Any force you use must be reasonable and proportionate to the situation. Excessive force can lead to legal consequences for both you and your employer. Always aim to de-escalate situations and use the minimum amount of force necessary.
4. Communication
Clear communication is vital when detaining someone. Calmly and clearly explain why you’re detaining them. This helps manage their behaviour and shows your professionalism and adherence to legal standards.
5. Documentation
Proper documentation of the incident is crucial. Record the time, date, location, reason for detention, and any actions taken. Detailed reports protect you and your employer if there’s a legal dispute.
Interaction with Law Enforcement
Interaction with Law Enforcement
6. Call the Police
After detaining someone, your next step should be to contact the police immediately. Your role isn’t to hold someone for extended periods; that’s the police’s job. They’ll take over and determine any further action.
7. Provide Evidence
When the police arrive, give them all the relevant information and evidence. This includes surveillance footage, witness statements, and your incident report. Clear communication with law enforcement ensures the situation is handled correctly.
Handling Different Scenarios
Handling Different Scenarios
8. Shoplifting
If you catch someone shoplifting, make sure you’ve seen the act and that they’ve passed the point of sale without paying. When detaining a suspected shoplifter, follow your company’s policies and legal requirements.
9. Trespassing
For trespassing incidents, inform the person they’re on private property and must leave. If they refuse, you can detain them under the appropriate legal provisions until the police arrive.
10. Assault or Violence
In cases of assault or violence, prioritise safety above all. If you can, detain the individual while waiting for the police. However, never compromise your safety or that of others.
Understanding the legalities and best practices around detaining individuals is crucial for security guards. Sticking to these guidelines helps ensure you act within your legal rights, maintain professionalism, and protect yourself and your employer from potential legal issues.
At London Security College, we’re committed to providing ongoing training and resources to keep our security students informed and prepared for any situation. Stay safe out there and remember knowledge is your best defence
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5 thoughts on “Can Security Guards Detain You?”
How long can security guards keep someone detained?
Until the police arrive, but there’s no set time limit.
Well-explained and easy to understand.