Maryland Security Guard Practice Exam

What legal limitations do security guards face regarding arrests?

1. They can arrest anyone at any time

2. They may detain but cannot perform full arrests

3. They can only implement searches

4. They cannot detain anyone

The correct answer is: They may detain but cannot perform full arrests

The statement that security guards may detain but cannot perform full arrests is accurate because security guards operate under specific legal limitations that govern their authority. In most jurisdictions, including Maryland, security guards are typically viewed as private citizens when on duty, which means their powers are limited compared to law enforcement officers. Security guards are allowed to detain individuals if they have probable cause to believe that the individual has committed a crime, especially in cases of theft or trespassing on property they are responsible for securing. However, this detention is temporary and is generally limited to the need to prevent further harm or to wait for law enforcement to arrive. They do not have the authority to carry out full arrests, which involve taking someone into custody formally under the law. Performing searches is also regulated, as security guards do not have the same search authority that police officers possess, particularly regarding the expectation of privacy and the need for probable cause. Moreover, security guards are prohibited from detaining individuals without reasonable grounds, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal protocols when conducting their duties. This framework ensures that while security personnel play a vital role in maintaining safety, their actions are constrained to prevent abuses of power.