What should a security guard do if they witness a crime?

The appropriate course of action for a security guard who witnesses a crime is to observe the details of the incident, report it to authorities, and avoid engaging with the suspect. This approach is recommended for several reasons.

First, observing details of the incident allows the guard to gather crucial information that can be passed on to law enforcement. This can include descriptions of the suspect, the nature of the crime, time and location of the incident, and any other relevant circumstances. Accurate and detailed information is vital for police investigations and can significantly assist in apprehending the suspect.

Additionally, reporting the incident to authorities ensures that trained professionals can handle the situation appropriately. Security guards are not law enforcement officers, and intervening directly with a suspect can escalate the situation, potentially putting the guard, bystanders, or even the suspect in danger.

Avoiding engagement with the suspect is crucial for maintaining safety. Direct confrontation can lead to unpredictable outcomes, including violence. The priority should always be the safety of all individuals involved, including the possibility of safely detaining the suspect until the appropriate authorities arrive.

Overall, taking a step back to observe and report rather than intervening personally aligns with best practices in security and law enforcement protocols.