Ace the Vermont Security Guard Test 2025 – Unleash Your Inner Protector!

The term that describes a security guard's authority to detain a suspect is a citizen's arrest. This concept allows private citizens, including security personnel, to arrest an individual under certain conditions when they witness a crime being committed or have reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has occurred.

A citizen's arrest is rooted in common law and varies by jurisdiction, but it generally provides the authority for an individual to maintain safety and order, especially in settings where immediate action is needed, such as in a retail environment or at an event. This authority does not give the guard the same powers as law enforcement officers, who typically hold the authority to arrest individuals based on warrants or established legal processes.

Understanding the scope of a citizen's arrest is crucial for security professionals, as it outlines their responsibilities and limitations in managing security situations effectively while ensuring they act within legal boundaries.