When can security guards legally detain a suspect?

Security guards are authorized to detain a suspect when they have a reasonable belief that a crime has occurred. This principle is based on the legal concept of "reasonable suspicion," which allows security personnel to act when they observe behavior or circumstances that lead them to believe criminal activity is taking place.

Having reasonable belief means that the guard must be able to articulate specific facts and circumstances that justify their decision to detain the person. This is essential not only for the protection of the public but also to ensure that the security guard's actions are lawful and defensible in the event of a legal challenge.

Detaining someone solely on the request of a civilian, based on personal feelings of threat, or simply requesting permission from an employer lacks the necessary grounds for legal detention. These options do not provide the standard of reason and justification required for a lawful detention. Therefore, the correct approach hinges on the security guard's judgment and the presence of objectively reasonable grounds to suspect that a crime has been committed.