Nevada Private Security Guard Practice Exam

When can a security guard legally detain a suspect?

1. When they witness the crime take place

2. When they have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity

3. When they are trained in self-defense

4. When the individual refuses to provide identification

The correct answer is: When they have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity

In the context of private security, a security guard is legally permitted to detain a suspect when they have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. Reasonable suspicion is a legal standard that refers to the belief, based on specific and articulable facts, that a person may be involved in criminal activity. This standard is less stringent than probable cause, which is required for arrest by law enforcement officers, but it must still be supported by specific observations or facts that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that something illegal is occurring. Having reasonable suspicion allows security guards to act on their instincts and training regarding potential threats or criminal behavior. This empowers them to intervene in situations where they believe that a crime might be occurring, providing a proactive means to protect property and individuals. While witnessing a crime firsthand can certainly justify detaining a suspect, reasonable suspicion is a broader standard that allows for preemptive action when a security guard may not yet have concrete evidence of a crime.