Colorado Security Officer Jurisprudence Practice Exam

What should a security officer do if they witness a crime in progress?

1. Ignore it and continue with their duties

2. Notify law enforcement immediately and take appropriate action to ensure safety

3. Attempt to apprehend the suspect on their own

4. Report to their supervisor first before taking any action

The correct answer is: Notify law enforcement immediately and take appropriate action to ensure safety

When a security officer witnesses a crime in progress, their immediate priority should be to ensure the safety of the public and themselves while also notifying law enforcement without delay. This response is crucial for several reasons. First, security officers have a duty to protect and respond to imminent threats. Notifying law enforcement immediately is essential because police are trained to handle criminal situations and have the authority and resources to respond effectively. Waiting or ignoring the situation could compromise safety and allow the crime to escalate. Second, by taking appropriate action to ensure safety, security officers can also potentially prevent further harm. This may include alerting nearby individuals to the danger or moving people out of harm's way. Third, attempting to apprehend a suspect on their own carries inherent risks and can lead to unpredictable and dangerous situations. It may also have legal ramifications, as security personnel generally do not have the same authority as police officers and may face liability if their actions are deemed excessive or unlawful. Moreover, reporting to a supervisor before taking any action may delay necessary responses and intervention, especially in a critical and time-sensitive situation. Security officers are often trained to act decisively in emergencies, and immediate notification is in line with their responsibilities. Therefore, the best response is to notify law enforcement immediately