Georgia Security Guard License Practice Exam

Can private security guards arrest on behalf of law enforcement?

1. Yes, they have full police powers

2. No, they do not have police powers

3. Only with law enforcement approval

4. Yes, if they witness a crime

The correct answer is: No, they do not have police powers

Private security guards do not have police powers, which differentiates them from sworn law enforcement officers. Their role is generally focused on maintaining safety and order within their assigned areas and protecting property. Unlike law enforcement officers who have the authority to arrest and enforce the law, private security personnel operate under specific limitations that are defined by state laws and their employer's policies. While there are circumstances where a security guard may detain an individual, such as when they witness a crime in progress or for the purpose of preventing theft, this is not equivalent to the full range of powers that police officers possess, such as conducting investigations, making arrests, or carrying firearms without restrictions. Their powers are often limited to citizen's arrest protocols, which vary by state and require the guard to act within a legal framework. Hence, acknowledging the absence of police powers aligns with the regulatory framework governing private security operations.