Colorado Security Officer Jurisprudence Practice Exam

Under what conditions can a security guard conduct an arrest?

1. When they suspect someone is carrying a weapon

2. To prevent a crime in process or if they have witnessed a felony

3. When they feel threatened

4. During any emergency situation

The correct answer is: To prevent a crime in process or if they have witnessed a felony

A security guard is authorized to conduct an arrest under specific conditions that are largely tied to the concept of immediate necessity in crime prevention. The correct choice, which states that a security guard can make an arrest to prevent a crime in process or if they have witnessed a felony, aligns with the principles of citizen's arrest and the responsibilities inherent to their role. In these scenarios, the guard has a legal justification to act when they either directly observe a crime occurring or when there is imminent danger of a crime being committed. This ensures that they are acting within the scope of their authority and responsibilities to protect property and individuals. The underlying rationale is that security personnel are trained to respond to specific situations where their intervention is necessary to safeguard the environment they are tasked to protect. Other options do not meet the legal criteria for an arrest. While suspicions about someone carrying a weapon may indeed raise concerns, mere suspicion without witnessing a crime does not provide legal grounds for arrest. Similarly, feeling threatened does not justify an arrest unless there is an observable crime or imminent threat that poses a direct danger. In emergency situations, the response required may vary greatly and does not inherently grant the authority to make an arrest unless it involves preventing or addressing a crime witnessed. This careful delineation ensures