Georgia Security Guard License Practice Exam

Can a security guard perform arrests under Georgia law?

1. Only with a supervisor's permission

2. Yes, but under certain conditions related to citizen’s arrest

3. No, they are not allowed to make arrests

4. Yes, for any criminal activity

The correct answer is: Yes, but under certain conditions related to citizen’s arrest

Under Georgia law, security guards have the ability to perform arrests, but this is contingent upon certain conditions outlined in the state's laws concerning citizen's arrest. The law allows any private citizen, including security personnel, to detain individuals who they have witnessed committing a crime. This concept is known as citizen's arrest. For a security guard to execute an arrest, several factors must be considered: they must have reasonable grounds to believe a crime has been committed, and the arrest must occur immediately after witnessing the criminal activity. Furthermore, the nature of the offense often dictates the appropriateness and legality of the arrest. Thus, while security guards are not considered law enforcement officers, they have specific powers granted under the citizen's arrest doctrine, which justifies the correct response to the question.