Nevada Private Security Guard Practice Exam

What kind of authority do private security guards have in comparison to law enforcement officers?

1. They have the same authority

2. They have limited authority, primarily to detain

3. They have more authority in certain situations

4. They do not have any authority at all

The correct answer is: They have limited authority, primarily to detain

Private security guards operate under a different framework of authority compared to law enforcement officers. They possess limited authority primarily focused on detaining individuals in specific situations, particularly when managing property they are tasked to protect. This authority is generally confined to the premises they are assigned to and does not extend to broader law enforcement powers such as arresting individuals or conducting investigations. While law enforcement officers have the authority granted by the government, which includes arresting individuals, enforcing laws, and conducting investigations, private security guards must adhere to the parameters set by their employer and relevant laws. Their primary role is to observe, report, and ensure the safety of the environments they are guarding, but they can intervene to detain suspects if they witness a crime occurring in real-time or if someone poses an immediate threat to safety. Understanding the limited scope of authority that private security guards have is crucial for recognizing the distinct roles and responsibilities that both private security and law enforcement play in safeguarding the community.