New Jersey Security Guard Practice Exam

Under what condition is it appropriate for a security guard to detain an individual?

1. When they have a personal suspicion about the person

2. When there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed

3. If the individual is causing a disturbance

4. When requested by a member of the public

The correct answer is: When there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed

Detaining an individual is a serious action that requires a clear and justifiable reason. The most appropriate condition under which a security guard may detain someone is when there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. Probable cause means that the guard has sufficient evidence or reasonable grounds to suspect that the individual is involved in criminal activity. This standard is essential in upholding the legal rights of individuals and ensuring that any detention is not arbitrary or unjustified. Just relying on personal suspicion, disturbances, or requests from the public lacks the legal foundation necessary to justify a detention. Personal suspicion may arise from one’s intuition but does not equate to the objective facts needed to establish probable cause. Similarly, causing a disturbance can justify intervention but may not necessarily warrant detention unless it is linked to criminal behavior. Lastly, acting solely on a request from a member of the public does not provide the security guard with the necessary authority to detain someone. Therefore, the requirement of probable cause ensures that security personnel operate within the bounds of the law while protecting both the public and individual rights.