When businesses or property owners hire security guards, one of the most common questions that comes up is: Can security guards arrest or hold someone? While guards play an essential role in protecting people and property, their powers are not the same as those of law enforcement officers. To understand what security guards legally can and cannot do, it’s important to break down the difference between a citizen’s arrest and a police arrest, as well as the circumstances under which a guard can legally detain someone.
Can Security Guards Make an Arrest?
The short answer is: security guards cannot make a police arrest. Only sworn law enforcement officers—such as city police, sheriff’s deputies, or state troopers—have the legal authority to arrest someone under criminal law.
However, security guards in California and other states may have the power to conduct what’s known as a citizen’s arrest under certain conditions. This is not the same as a police arrest and comes with strict legal boundaries.
What Is a Citizen’s Arrest?
A citizen’s arrest is when a private individual (including a security guard) detains a person because they witnessed them committing a crime. For example, if someone is caught stealing merchandise, vandalizing property, or trespassing, a security guard may legally hold them until law enforcement arrives.
Key points about citizen’s arrest include:
- The crime must generally be committed in the presence of the guard.
- Guards may detain the suspect using reasonable force until police arrive.
- Excessive force or unlawful detention can lead to legal issues for both the guard and the business.
When Can Security Guards Detain Someone?
Security guards may detain someone in the following scenarios:
- Shoplifting or Theft: If a guard sees someone stealing from a store, they may stop and hold the individual.
- Trespassing: Guards can detain someone unlawfully entering or refusing to leave private property.
- Violent Behavior: If someone poses a safety threat, a guard may restrain them until police arrive.
That said, guards must use only reasonable force and call law enforcement as soon as possible. The detention is temporary and strictly for the purpose of handing the suspect over to authorities.
Why Businesses Hire Trained Security Guards
Handling tense situations such as theft, fights, or trespassing requires professional training and calm judgment. Security guards know how to:
- Identify suspicious behavior early.
- Safely de-escalate conflicts before they become dangerous.
- Legally detain suspects without overstepping boundaries.
- Protect employees, customers, and property while waiting for law enforcement.
Without trained guards, businesses risk employees taking unnecessary risks or mishandling confrontations that could escalate into legal or safety issues.
Work with Diamond Security Services
At Diamond Security Services, we provide highly trained security guards across California who understand both the limits and powers of legal detention. Our team ensures that incidents are handled professionally, safely, and within the law.
If you’d like to learn more about our services—or get a free quote for professional security solutions—please fill out our form below. One of our team members will get back to you within 24 hours.
