POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS

Bureau of Security and Investigative Services

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL 

October 2011


STATE OF CALIFORNIA 


POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Page

Table of Contents

..................................................................................................... 2-3 


Instructor/Employer Introduction and Training Requirements .................................... 4-10 

Steps to Administering Power to Arrest.................................................................... 11-14 

Responsibilities of the security guard/proprietary private security officer/employer . 15-16 

Part A. Role and Responsibilities of the security guard/proprietary private security officer. 17-19

1. Areas of Responsibility ............................................................................. 20-21 

2. Prevention is the Key..................................................................................... 22 

3. Observe and Report ...................................................................................... 22 

4. Get Help ...................................................................................................... 23 

Part B. Relations with the Local Police.................................................................... 24-25 

Part C. Observation and Report Writing .................................................................. 26-28 

Part D. Authority to Question and a Basis for Making Decisions............................. 29-31 

Part E. Inspections ................................................................................................. 32-33 

Part F. Legal Responsibilities and Liabilities ........................................................... 34-38 

Part G. Factors to Consider Before Making an Arrest ............................................. 39-41 

Part H. Arrestable Offenses .................................................................................... 42-47 

Part I. Private Person's Arrest ................................................................................. 48-50 


POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Part J. Making an Arrest.......................................................................................... 51-55 

Part K. Searching the Suspect ................................................................................ 56-58 

Illustration of the Frisk ................................................................................................... 59 

Part L. Merchant's Privilege Search ........................................................................ 60-61 

Part M. After the Arrest ........................................................................................... 62-64 

Part N. Terrorism

................................................................................................. 65-68

Part O. Professional Conduct of a security guard/proprietary private security officer........68-70

Part P. Answers to Study Questions ....................................................................... 70-72 

Part Q. Final Examination ....................................................................................... 72-79 

Power to Arrest Final Examination (Answer Sheet)....................................................... 80 

Instructor's Answer Key................................................................................................. 81 





POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

INSTRUCTOR - EMPLOYER INTRODUCTION AND TRAINING 

REQUIREMENTS

(Listed below are sections in the California Business and Professions Code that pertain to the
Powers to Arrest Manual)

Private Patrol Operator and Security Guards:
Business and Professions Code Section 7582.1(a) defines a private patrol
operator and Section 7582.1(e) defines a security guard, as follows:
§7582.1(a) A private patrol operator, or operator of a private patrol service, within the
meaning of this chapter is a person, other than an armored contract carrier, who, for any
consideration whatsoever: Agrees to furnish, or furnishes, a watchman, guard,
patrolperson, or other person to protect persons or property or to prevent the theft,
unlawful taking, loss, embezzlement, misappropriation, or concealment of any goods,
wares, merchandise, money, bonds, stocks,notes, documents, papers, or property of
any kind; or performs the service of a watchman, guard, patrolperson, or other person,
for any of these purposes.
§7582.1(e) A security guard or security officer, within the meaning of this chapter, is an
employee of a private patrol operator, or an employee of a lawful business or
public agency who is not exempted pursuant to Section 7582.2, who performs the
functions as described in subdivision (a) on or about the premises owned or controlled
by the customer of the private patrol operator or by the guard's employer or in the
company of persons being protected.
Proprietary Private Security Officer:
Business and Professions Code Section 7574.01(e) defines a proprietary private
security employer and Section 7574.01(f) defines a proprietary private security
officer, as follows:
§7574.01(e) "Proprietary private security employer" means a person who has one or
more employees who provide security services for the employer and only for the
employer. A person who employs proprietary private security officers pursuant to this
chapter at more than one location shall be considered a single employer.
§7574.01 (f) "Proprietary private security officer" means an unarmed individual who is
employed exclusively by any one employer whose primary duty is to provide security
services for his or her employer, whose services are not contracted to any other entity
(Revised1 10/11)

4

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
or person, and who is not exempt pursuant to Section 7582.2, and who meets both of
the following criteria:
(1) Is required to wear a distinctive uniform clearly identifying the individual as a
security officer.
(2) Is likely to interact with the public while performing his or her duties.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Security Guard with Firearm (G with FQ) Training
§7583.5.(a) Every licensee and any person employed and compensated by a licensee,
other lawful business or public agency as a security guard or patrolperson, and who in
the course of that employment or business carries a firearm, shall complete a course of
training in the exercise of the powers to arrest and a course of training in the carrying
and use of firearms. This subdivision shall not apply to armored vehicle guards hired
prior to January 1, 1977. Armored vehicle guards hired on or after January 1, 1977,
shall complete a course of training in the carrying and use of firearms, but shall not be
required to complete a course of training in the exercise of the powers to arrest. The
course of training in the carrying and use of firearms shall not be required of any
employee who is not required or permitted by a licensee to carry or use firearms. The
course in the carrying and use of firearms and the course of training in the exercise of
the powers to arrest shall meet the standards which shall be prescribed by the
Department of Consumer Affairs. The department shall encourage restraint and caution
in the use of firearms.
(b) No uniformed employee of a licensee shall carry or use any firearm unless the
employee has in his or her possession a valid firearm qualification card.
Security Guard (G) Training
§7583.6. (a) A person entering the employ of a licensee to perform the functions of a
security guard or a security patrolperson shall complete a course in the exercise of the
power to arrest prior to being assigned to a duty location.
(b) Except for a registrant who has completed the course of training required by Section
7583.45, a person registered pursuant to this chapter shall complete not less than 32
hours of training in security officer skills within six months from the date the registration
card is issued. Sixteen of the 32 hours shall be completed within 30 days from the date
the registration card is issued.
(c) A course provider shall issue a certificate to a security guard upon satisfactory
completion of a required course, conducted in accordance with the department's
requirements. A private patrol operator may provide training programs and courses in
(Revised1 10/11)

5

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
addition to the training required in this section. A registrant who is unable to provide his
or her employing licensee the certificate of satisfactory completion required by this
subdivision shall complete 16 hours of the training required by subdivision (b) within 30
days of the date of his employment and shall complete the 16 remaining hours within six
months of his or her employment date.
(d) The department shall develop and approve by regulation a standard course and
curriculum for the skills training required by subdivision (b) to promote and protect the
safety of persons and the security of property. For this purpose, the department shall
consult with consumers, labor organizations representing private security officers,
private patrol operators, educators, and subject matter experts.
(e) The course of training required by subdivision (b) may be administered, tested,
and certified by any licensee, or by any organization or school approved by the
department. The department may approve any person or school to teach the course.
(f) (1) On and after January 1, 2005, a licensee shall annually provide each employee
registered pursuant to this chapter with eight hours of specifically dedicated review or
practice of security.officer skills prescribed in either course required in Section 7583.6 or
7583.7.
(2) A licensee shall maintain at the principal place of business or branch office a
record verifying completion of the review or practice training for a period of not less than
two years. The records shall be available for inspection by the bureau upon request.
(g) This section does not apply to a peace officer as defined in Chapter 4.5
(commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code who has
successfully completed a course of study in the exercise of the power to arrest
approved by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. This section
does not apply to armored vehicle guards.
(h) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2004.
§7583.7. (a) The course of training in the exercise of the power to arrest may be
administered, tested, and certified by any licensee or by any organization or school
approved by the department. The department may approve any person or school to
teach the course in the exercise of the power to arrest. The course of training shall be
approximately eight hours in length and shall cover the following topics:
(1) Responsibilities and ethics in citizen arrest.
(2) Relationship between a security guard and a peace officer in making an arrest.
(3) Limitations on security guard power to arrest.
(4) Restrictions on searches and seizures.
(5) Criminal and civil liabilities.
(A) Personal liability.
(B) Employer liability.
(6) Trespass law.
(7) Ethics and communications.
(8) Emergency situation response, including response to medical emergencies.
(Revised1 10/11)

6

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
(9) Security officer safety.
(10) Any other topic deemed appropriate by the bureau.
(b) The majority of the course shall be taught by means of verbal instruction. This
instruction may include the use of a video presentation.
(c) The department shall make available a guidebook as a standard for teaching the
course in the exercise of the power to arrest. The department shall encourage additional
training and may provide a training guide recommending additional courses to be taken
by security personnel.
(d) Private patrol operators shall provide a copy of the guidebook described in
subdivision (c) to each person that they currently employ as a security guard and to
each individual that they intend to hire as a security guard. The private patrol operator
shall provide the guidebook to each person he or she intends to hire as a security guard
a reasonable time prior to the time the person begins the course in the exercise of the
power to arrest.
(e) The bureau may inspect, supervise, or view the administration of the test at any
time and without any prior notification. Any impropriety in the administration of the
course or the test shall constitute grounds for disciplinary action.
(f) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2004.

Proprietary Private Security Officer (PPSO) Training
7574.18. (a) Except for a person who has completed the course of training required by
Section 7583.45, a person registered and hired as a proprietary private security officer
shall complete training in security officer skills within six months from the date upon
which registration is issued, or within six months of his or her employment with a
proprietary private security employer.
(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), a course provider shall issue a certificate
to a proprietary private security officer upon satisfactory completion of a required
course, conducted in accordance with the department's requirements.
(2) If a proprietary private security employer administers a course of training pursuant
to this section, that proprietary private security employer shall issue a certificate to a
proprietary private
security officer for the completion of training in security officer skills that each
proprietary private security officer is required to complete, as determined by the
department, such as, but not limited to, power-to-arrest training. However, the employer
shall not be required to provide a certificate for training courses provided pursuant to a
curriculum adopted by the department that are specific to that employer's business and
where the subject of training is not
specifically required by the department.
(c) An employer of a proprietary private security officer may provide training programs
and courses in addition to the training required in this section.
(Revised1 10/11)

7

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
(d) The department shall develop and establish by regulation a standard course and
curriculum, which shall include a minimum number of hours of instruction, for the skills
training required by subdivision (a) to promote and protect the safety of persons and the
security of property. For this purpose, the regulations adopted by the department
pursuant to Section 7574.5, as added by Chapter 721 of the Statutes of 2007, are
continued in existence, and shall be amended by the department as necessary.
(e) The course of training required by subdivision (a) may be administered, tested,
and certified by any proprietary private security employer, organization, or school
approved by the department. The department may approve any proprietary private
security employer, organization, or school to teach the course.
(f) (1) A proprietary private security employer shall annually provide each employee
registered pursuant to this chapter with specifically dedicated review or practice of
security officer skills prescribed in the training required in this section. The bureau shall
adopt and approve by regulation the minimum number of hours required for annual
review.
(2) A proprietary private security employer shall maintain at the principal place of
business or branch office a record verifying completion of the review or practice training
for a period of not less than two years. The records shall be available for inspection by
the department upon request.
(g) This section does not apply to a peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5
(commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, who has
successfully completed a course of study in the exercise of the power to arrest
approved by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. This section
does not apply to armored vehicle guards.
Private Investigator (PI) Training
§7542. Every licensee and qualified manager who in the course of his or her
employment or business carries a deadly weapon shall complete a course of training in
the exercise of the powers to arrest as specified in Section 7583.7 and a course of
training in the carrying and use of firearms as specified in Article 4 (commencing with
Section 7583) of Chapter 11.5. No licensee or qualified manager shall carry or use a
firearm unless he or she has met the requirements of Sections 7583.23, 7583.28, and
7583.29 and has in his or her possession a valid firearms qualification card as provided
in Section 7583.30. A licensee or qualified manager who possesses
a valid firearms qualification card shall comply with and be subject to the provisions of
Sections 7583.31, 7583.32, and 7583.37.

(Revised1 10/11)

8

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Alarm Company Responder (ACE) Training
§7598.1. Every person entering the employ of a licensee, performing the function of an
alarm agent who responds to alarm systems shall complete a course in the exercise of
the powers to arrest, prior to being assigned to a duty location responding to an alarm
system. Evidence of completion shall consist of certification by the licensee or
instructor that the exercise of the powers to arrest course has been taught, the date the
course was taught, and certification by the employee that the instruction was received.
Evidence of completion of the powers to arrest shall be maintained in the licensee's
employee records and made available to the bureau upon request.
A qualified manager is not required to register under this article.
§7598.2. The course of training in the exercise of the power to arrest may be
administered, tested, and certified by any licensee. The department may approve any
person or school to teach the course in the exercise of the power to arrest. The course
of training shall be approximately two hours in length and cover the following topics:
(a) Responsibilities and ethics in citizen arrest.
(b) Relationship with the public police in arrest.
(c) Limitations on security guard power to arrest.
(d) Restrictions on searches and seizures.
(e) Criminal and civil liabilities.
(1) Personal liability.
(2) Employer liability.
The department shall make available a guide book as a standard for teaching the
course in the exercise of the power to arrest. The department shall encourage additional
training and may provide a training guide recommending additional courses.
§7598.3. No employee of a licensee performing the function of an alarm agent who
responds to alarm systems shall be issued a firearms qualification card until proper
certification by the instructor that the exercise of the power to arrest course has been
taught and the employee's certification that the instruction was received has been
delivered to the department.
Training Syllabus
To view the training syllabus for security guards (California Code of Regulations Title
16, Div. 7, §643) and proprietary private security officers (California Code of
Regulations Title 16, Div. 7, §645), please visit the Bureau of Security and Investigative
Services website (www.bsis.ca.gov).

(Revised1 10/11)

9

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

EXAM INFORMATION
An applicant must receive a score of 100 percent on the examination in order to
successfully complete the course [Title 16, California Code of Regulations (CCR)
Section 628]. Trainees who fail the final examination the first time may restudy their
weak areas and try again. If the trainee has difficulty understanding the material as
presented in the booklet, the instructor will be expected to offer guidance. This does not
mean that you are to provide the answer key along with the booklet, but rather to assist
the applicant to understand the questions.
If you are an employer administering the examination, keep in mind that you may be
held responsible for your employee’s conduct while on duty; therefore, it is in your
interest to ensure that they are properly trained. If you are a Bureau-approved
instructor, you may be held liable for the conduct of those to whom you have provided
instruction; therefore, it is in your interest to train the students properly.
These booklets are intended for reuse. Please be sure to caution applicants to refrain
from writing in the booklets. You are responsible for making any additional copies.

(Revised1 10/11)

10

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

STEPS TO ADMINISTERING POWER TO ARREST

Allow each person as much time as needed to finish the examination. Before beginning
the examination, determine whether anyone would benefit from having the examination
questions read aloud.
1. 	

Explain the reason for “Power to Arrest” and that the final score of 100 percent is
required before you can sign the security guard registration application. Explain
that this is an open-book examination, and that answers may be corrected before
being submitted for grading. The course is intended to be a learning experience
as well as a guide to understanding.

2. 	

Supply each applicant with a pencil and scratch paper as well as a Power to
Arrest answer sheet. A quiet place should be provided for the examination.

3. 	

Have trainees read through to Question #65. They should read the study
material and answer the questions by writing on the scratch paper provided. You
may answer any questions that may arise. If you are an employer, you may wish
to inform the applicants of your own company policies at this point. Discuss
answers.

4. 	

Review the most important points in the text:
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer is NOT a peace officer.
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s primary responsibility
should be to protect the property or persons he or she is assigned to protect.
¾ The main role of a security guard/proprietary private security officer should be
PREVENTION.
¾ If prevention is not possible, the role of a security guard/proprietary private
security officer should be to OBSERVE and REPORT.
¾ In reporting activity, a FACT is an event that actually occurs. A CONCLUSION
is a belief one reaches as a result of the existence of certain facts.
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer is an agent of the property
owner and can question people on the owner’s property.
¾ A security guard/private security officer may prevent someone from entering

(Revised1 10/11)

11

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
private property by standing in his way.
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer should not touch an
employee’s belongings when inspecting them.
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s power to arrest is the
same as any other private person’s.
¾ CRIMINAL LIABILITY refers to criminal penalties that can be imposed for a
wrongful act. For example, carrying a loaded weapon concealed in your jacket
is a violation of the Penal Code; the criminal penalty for the offense is a fine or
jail sentence or both.
¾CIVIL LIABILITY refers to penalties arising from lawsuits that private persons
bring against each other.
¾A security guard’s registration card does not allow the security guard to carry a
weapon; the security guard must also have a valid exposed firearm permit
and/or a baton certificate. It is ILLEGAL to carry a firearm without a firearm
permit and a valid security guard registration. It is ILLEGAL to carry a baton
without a baton permit and a valid security guard registration.
¾A proprietary private security officer’s registration card does not allow the
proprietary private security officer to carry a weapon.
¾A firearm permit and/or a baton permit cannot be issued a PPSO registrant.
¾ Negligence and law violations by a security guard/proprietary private security
officer may cause the employer and the client to be held CIVILLY responsible.
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer IS NOT OBLIGATED by
law to make an arrest. When he/she does make an arrest, it is called an arrest
by a private person or citizen’s arrest (Penal Code §837).
¾ A misdemeanor is generally a crime for which the offender can be fined and/or
sentenced to county jail for a period not to exceed one year. In order for a
security guard/proprietary private security officer to make a proper
misdemeanor arrest, it is necessary that the security guard/private security
officer actually sees or witnesses the misdemeanor offense committed or
attempted in his presence.

(Revised1 10/11)

12

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
¾ A felony is generally a crime for which the offender can be sentenced to state
prison for a period exceeding one year or in the case of a capital offense,
executed. In order for a security guard/proprietary private security officer to
make a proper felony arrest, a felony must have been committed, and the
security guard/proprietary private security officer must have REASONABLE
CAUSE to believe the person being arrested committed the offense.
¾ An arrested person is called a SUSPECT until the court finds him/her innocent
or guilty.
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer making a citizen’s arrest
must tell the suspect of the INTENTION to arrest, the CAUSE for the arrest,
and the security guard/proprietary private security officer’s AUTHORITY to
make a citizen’s arrest. (Penal Code §841)
¾ REASONABLE FORCE in an arrest situation is a degree of force reasonably
needed to detain an individual and to protect oneself. (People v. Garcia,
(1969) 78 Cal.Rptr. 775)
¾ If a suspect does not feel free to walk away because of a security
guard/proprietary private security officer’s statements and actions, he may
claim to have been under arrest.
¾ A security guard/proprietary private security officer should never touch a
suspect except when they are protecting a citizen, protecting their employers
property, in self defense, or when necessary to use reasonable force in
effecting an arrest.
¾ Upon arrest, A security guard/proprietary private security officer may search
for WEAPONS ONLY and may search only when they have cause to believe
that the arrested person is armed. This decision is at the discretion of the
security guard/proprietary private security officer’s employer.
¾ A suspect MAY NOT be legally searched for weapons until he is actually
arrested. (Penal Code §846) This decision is at the discretion of the security
guard/proprietary private security officer’s employer.
¾ If contraband or stolen items are discovered while searching for weapons,
those items should be left on the suspect, unless there is a likelihood the
suspect will dispose of them. When the suspect is turned over to the peace
officer, he should be notified of the discovered items. The decision regarding
this statement would be at the direction of the employer. The employer may
(Revised1 10/11)

13

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
prohibit certain items from entering their business or function.
¾ If a private citizen has made a lawful arrest, the peace officer by law MAY take
custody of the suspect.
¾ The person/security guard/proprietary private security officer who makes an
arrest will be recorded as the arresting party.
5. 	

Administer the final exam. Have trainees write their answers on the “Power to
Arrest” answer sheet. If they fail the first time, have them review the material
again and correct the answers they missed.

6. 	

Have each security guard/proprietary private security officer fill out an application
for registration for employment as a security guard/proprietary private security
officer or alarm agent. Sign on the “instructor’s signature” line.

(Revised1 10/11)

14

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE 

SECURITY OFFICER AND EMPLOYER

As a registered security guard/proprietary private security officer, you have certain
responsibilities to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services and your employer.
In order to prevent possible denial or revocation of your registration card, it is important
that you are aware of the following:
1. 	

Security guard/proprietary private security officers must meet several
requirements before they begin work. These requirements include submitting
your application by mail or online (only guards can apply online at this time) with
the required fees to the Bureau.

2. 	

Submitting your fingerprints to the Department of Justice via Live Scan
immediately and include a copy of the completed live scan form with the
application and fees to the Bureau.

3. 	

Livescan fingerprint are sometimes rejected by the Department of Justice and/or
the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for being illegible. If the fingerprints are
rejected, you will receive a reject letter from the Bureau and you will be instructed
to have your fingerprints redone.

4. 	

While on duty you are required to possess a valid security guard/proprietary
private security officer registration or a screen-printout of the Bureau’s approval
from the Bureau’s Web site at www.bsis.ca.gov, along with a valid California
photo identification.

5.	

A proprietary private security officer may not carry a firearm or a baton.

6. 	

A security guard, private patrol operator, private investigator or alarm agent
responder who carries a gun or a baton must have a valid exposed firearm
permit and/or a valid baton certificate.

7.	

If you move or change your address, you must notify the Bureau within 30 days,
or you may be issued an administrative fine.

8.	

If your employer or any instructor encourages you to violate any of the above
requirements, you may report him/her to the Bureau in writing.

(Revised1 10/11)

15

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
AT THE END OF EACH SECTION OF THIS MANUAL, you will be asked several
questions to assist you in reviewing how well you UNDERSTOOD and REMEMBER
what you read. You will need:
•
•
•

An ANSWER SHEET for the final examination,
PAPER for answering the review questions, and
A PEN or PENCIL.

Please get this ready. Then go on to the next page for your first review.

(Revised1 10/11)

16

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART A.
THE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY 

PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER AND EMPLOYER

It is important to remember:
As a security guard/proprietary private security officer, you are NOT a peace
officer!!!
How are security guard/proprietary private security officers DIFFERENT from peace
officers?
Security guard/proprietary private security officers do not have:
¾ The same job duties as peace officers;
¾ The same training; or
¾ The same powers as peace officers, according to the law.
What happens when a security guard/proprietary private security officer PRETENDS to
be a peace officer?
Any security guard/proprietary private security officer who pretends or even
implies (lets others think) that he is a peace officer is committing a crime. A
person who is found guilty of impersonating a peace officer could be punished by
a fine and or county jail sentence and his registration may be denied or revoked.
What are a security guard/proprietary private security officer’s ROLES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES?
A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s role should be to PROTECT
people and property for his employer.
A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s responsibility BEFORE an
incident/offense has occurred should be PREVENTION.
A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s responsibility DURING or
AFTER an incident/offense has occurred should be to OBSERVE and REPORT.

(Revised1 10/11)

17

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
How should security guard/proprietary private security officers PERFORM their job?
The major responsibility of a security guard/proprietary private security officer is
should be prevention BEFORE an incident/offense occurs. Thus, a security
guard/proprietary private security officer should be highly visible. By being seen,
the security guard/proprietary private security officer may discourage anyone
who might be considering theft, damage, or personal injury. A security
guard/proprietary private security officer’s job focus should be PREVENTION.
To do the job well, the security guard/proprietary private security officer MUST:
¾ Be alert
¾ Listen
¾ Watch
The decision on how the security guard/proprietary private security officer should
react to any given situation is at the discretion of the security guard/proprietary
private security officer’s employer.
What is a sign that a security guard/proprietary private security officer is doing a good
job?
The absence of incidents or offenses (crimes) is one sign that a security
guard/proprietary private security officer is doing a good job.
What should a security guard/proprietary private security officer do if an incident or
offense occurs?
If an incident/offense occurs, a security guard/proprietary private security officer
should not immediately intervene. Instead, the security guard/proprietary private
security officer should:
¾ Stay calm
¾ Observe and remember events
¾ Report to the police/or the security guard/proprietary private security
officer’s supervisor (follow the employer policy).
The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer. Some
employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay
within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest.

(Revised1 10/11)

18

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO. 1
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q.1

	THE PRIMARY ROLE OF A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE
SECURITY OFFICER SHOULD BE TO:
A.
B.
C.
D.

Enforce the law.
Protect people and property.
Act like a peace officer.
Arrest law breakers.

Q.2 	 A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER’S ROLE
IS THE SAME AS THAT OF A PEACE OFFICER.
A. True
B. False
Q.3 	 WHAT SHOULD THE RESPONSIBILITY OF A SECURITY
GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER BE BEFORE AN
INCIDENT/OFFENSE HAS OCCURRED?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Q.4

Detain and punish.
Stay out of sight.
Prevent.
Search and seize.

	IT IS AGAINST THE LAW FOR A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY
PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER TO:
A.
B.
C.
D.

Arrest someone.
Protect property.
Observe and report.
Make someone think he is a peace officer.

(Revised1 10/11)

19

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
1. AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
WHAT IS A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER’S
JOB?
A security guard/proprietary private security officer is assigned to protect specific
people and property. This may include detecting some of the same offenses that
would cause a peace officer to act, such as a fight or burglary. But it would not
include other offenses such as motor vehicle traffic violations or prostitution. This
decision is at the discretion of the security guard’s, PPSO’s, PI’s or ACE’s
employer.
For example, if you were on duty at a plant gate and you observed two teenagers
having an auto race down a public road, you would not try to arrest them. You
may decide to report it to the police if a telephone is nearby. But you were hired
to protect the plant -not to arrest speeders.
(In fact, you should be suspicious of any activity that may draw you away from
your post. It could be a plan to draw your attention away from your duties.)
WHAT IS A PEACE OFFICER'S JOB?
Peace officers are law enforcement officers such as Sheriffs and their Deputies,
Constables, Marshals, members of city police forces and other officers whose
duty is to enforce the law and preserve the public peace. If a law is violated,
peace officers are required to pursue and apprehend the person responsible.
This is not required of a security guard/proprietary private security officer/private
investigator/alarm agent responder!
REMEMBER, a peace officer’s responsibilities are different from a security
guard/proprietary private security officer’s responsibilities.
¾ SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICERS only
protect specific people and property as directed by their employers.
¾ POLICE (PEACE OFFICERS) protect all people and all property and enforce
laws.

(Revised1 10/11)

20

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
WHAT OTHER DUTIES COULD A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE
SECURITY OFFICER HAVE?
A security guard/proprietary private security officer may be responsible for
maintaining certain company rules established by his/her employer. These could
include:
¾ Requiring employees to show their badges when entering the property;
¾ Inspecting lunch pails as employees leave the plant; or
¾ Monitoring safety standards and reporting hazards, blocked exits, fire safety,
slippery floors, etc.
A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s supervisor or employer most likely
offer instructions on helping employees observe company rules and policies.
EXAM REVIEW NO. 2
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q.5 	 YOU ARE STANDING SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE
SECURITY OFFICER INSIDE A DEPARTMENT STORE AND YOU OBSERVE
TWO MEN COMING OUT OF A BAR ACROSS THE STREET. THEY START
TO FIGHT. YOU SHOULD:
A. Go over and try to break up the fight.
B. Call the police if you can remain at your post.
Q.6 	 YOU ARE HIRED BY A BAR/RESTAURANT AS A SECURITY
GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER. AN ANGRY
CUSTOMER REFUSES TO PAY HIS CHECK. YOUR JOB IS TO:
A. Arrest him/her and everyone in his party.
B. Keep the peace and follow restaurant policy.

COMMENT: Notice the difference between situations in Questions 5 and 6. In
Question 5, the fight does not relate to your responsibility at the department store. In
Question 6, the customer is on your employer’s premises. This dispute relates to your
responsibility to protect your employer’s property because a fight could damage or
destroy property.
(Revised1 10/11)

21

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
2. PREVENTION IS THE KEY
The security guard/proprietary private security officer’s primary role should be to protect
persons and prevent damage or destruction to property. PREVENTION is the key word.
For example, if you spotted some people trying to climb a fence to enter private
property, you should shout at them or turn on the lights. Do anything lawful that would
discourage their trespassing, don’t wait until they cross the fence so you can arrest
them.
Another typical situation might be, a person intends to steal from a store, but suddenly
sees a uniformed security guard/proprietary private security officer on patrol. The
person leaves the store without stealing anything. The security guard/proprietary
private security officer, simply by being in uniform, has prevented a crime.

3. OBSERVE AND REPORT
If you can’t prevent an incident, the proper action should be to observe and report. You
should:
¾ Observe carefully and
¾ Report immediately to the local law enforcement and/or your supervisor.

SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER’S ROLE

INCIDENT	
BEFORE the incident:

SECURITY ROLE
PREVENTION

	

DURING OR AFTER the incident: 	

OBSERVE AND REPORT and
Notify law enforcement

The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer. Some
employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay
within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest.

(Revised1 10/11)

22

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
4. GET HELP
If a serious offense, such as robbery, burglary, or assault with a deadly weapon, has
been committed, you will need help to apprehend the suspect.
CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY. Even police who are trained to make forcible
arrests are encouraged to call for help in dangerous situations.
Examples:
#1: 	

You are patrolling the grounds of a factory at 2:00 a.m. and see two armed adults
entering the stock room. What should you do? (You should call the police, then
observe and report.)

#2: 	

While you are guarding a sporting goods store, a man runs out of the store. Ten
seconds later, the owner runs to you and says there has been a robbery. What
should you do? (Have the owner call the police, then observe and report.)

#3: 	

You are patrolling a store parking lot. A shopper loads Christmas gifts into a
station wagon parked in the lot and goes back to do more shopping. The
windows of the wagon are open, and three boys are gathered around the station
wagon looking in. What should you do? (You should try to prevent a possible
theft by making your presence known.)

#4: 	

You are on security guard/proprietary private security officer in a jewelry store.
An employee showing diamond rings to a customer is called to the telephone.
The customer is left alone with the display box of diamond rings. What should
you do? (You should try to discourage a theft by making your presence known.)

The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer. Some
employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay
within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest.

(Revised1 10/11)

23

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART B.
RELATIONS WITH LOCAL PEACE OFFICERS OR LAW ENFORCEMENT
Your job is made easier if you have a good working relationship with the local peace
officers.
¾

NEVER play “cop.” You don’t have the training for it and you don’t have the legal
authority to do the same things a peace officer can do. Also, playing “cop” may
antagonize the local law enforcement and hurt your company’s working relations
with them. Impersonating a peace officer is a felony.

¾

DON’T MISLEAD PEOPLE. Because of your uniform, badge, hat or other gear,
some people may think you are a peace officer. DON’T do anything to
encourage this false idea. Whenever the opportunity arises, make it a point to let
them know that you are NOT a peace officer, but a security guard/proprietary
private security officer.

¾

DURING AN EMERGENCY, you may not interfere with peace officers who may 

be on the scene even if they are on the private property of your employer or 

client. You must cooperate to the extent possible with these peace officers or 

you may be subject to arrest. Penal Code section 150 addresses aid to a peace 

officer, the person must be at least 18 years of age and be physically fit. If a 

peace officer’s life is endangered citizens must render aid to the peace officer 

(Posse Comitatus). 


REMEMBER:

Your roles are different! A peace officer is charged with the enforcement of laws in a 

city or county. A security guard/proprietary private security officer is responsible for 

protecting only the specific people or property he is hired to protect. 


The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer. Some

employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay 

within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest. 

* Note: Posse Comitatus, literally means “power of the country”.

(Revised1 10/11)

24

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO.3
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q.7 	 A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER’S
LAWFUL AUTHORITY IS THE SAME AS THAT OF A PEACE OFFICER.
A. Yes
B. No
Q.8 	 DURING AN EMERGENCY ON THE EMPLOYER’S PROPERTY, A PEACE
OFFICER INSTRUCTS A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE
SECURITY OFFICER TO STAND OUT OF THE WAY BEHIND A POLICE LINE,
THE SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER
MUST:
A. Refuse, as the security guard/proprietary private security officer's duties are
different from those of the peace officer.
B. Cooperate and follow the lawful orders of the peace officer.
C. Apprehend the persons violating the law on the employer’s or client’s property
since the security guard/proprietary private security officer’s duty is to protect the
property and person of the employer or client.

(Revised1 10/11)

25

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART C
OBSERVATION AND REPORT WRITING
STOP! LOOK! LISTEN! In a sense, security guard/proprietary private security officers
are paid observers. As a security guard/proprietary private security officer your role
should be PREVENTION. When an offense has been committed, your responsibility
should be to OBSERVE and REPORT. You may be required to:
¾ Report to the police
¾ Write a report for your employer
¾ Testify as to what you saw, heard, and did
The above direction is a suggestion and at the discretion of the employer. Some
employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay
within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest.
FACT vs. CONCLUSION. You will need to know the difference between a fact and
conclusion.
¾ A FACT is what has actually happened, or is known to be true.
¾ A CONCLUSION is a judgement or opinion formed as a result of the facts.
Peace officers and your employer are interested only in the FACTS. With proper facts,
they can reach their own conclusions. For example:
FACT:

As I came around the corner, I saw two men kneeling at the door.
One was holding a crowbar. The door had markings around the
lock.

CONCLUSION:

The men are burglars.

(Revised1 10/11)

26

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Facts
Conclusion
¾ A man was walking inside of a
¾ A man was wandering around
fenced area, looking at the
looking for something to steal
loading dock.
¾ A young man was weaving back
¾ He was drunk and couldn’t even
and forth and almost fell down
walk right.
twice in the two minutes I
observed him.
¾ A Woman got into the car and
¾ She tried to steal the car.
tried to start it.
¾ A girl picked up the necklace,
¾ After she stole the necklace, she
examined it, placed in her purse,
tried to get away by the north
and walked directly to the north
exit.
exit.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT! It will take practice to become a good OBSERVER and
to be able to REPORT facts instead of conclusions.
When you write a report, remember to include these six facts:
1.

Who

2.

What

3.

Where

4.

When

5.

How

6.

Names of witnesses

(Revised1 10/11)

27

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO. 4
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q.9 	 IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN A GOOD WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH THE
LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT, YOU SHOULD:
A. Never play “cop.”
B. Cooperate with local law enforcement.
C. Both A and B.
Q. 10 WRITE AN “F” IF IT IS A FACT OR A “C” IF IT IS A CONCLUSION.
A.
B.
C.
D.

He intended to kill her.
She was trying to steal the ring from the jewelry counter.
He ran to the fence.
He opened the window and entered.

Q. 11 WHAT SIX POINTS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A REPORT?

DO NOT WRITE IN THIS BOOK - USE ANOTHER PIECE OF PAPER.

(Revised1 10/11)

28

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART D
AUTHORITY TO QUESTION AND BASIS FOR MAKING DECISIONS
A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER’S AUTHORITY
TO QUESTION PEOPLE
A security guard/proprietary private security officer is an agent of the owner of
the private property and, in this role, can exercise the owner’s right to ask people
on the (owner’s) property what they are doing there, who they are, etc. If they
refuse to answer the questions or if their answers are not satisfactory, the
security guard/proprietary private security officer may ask them to leave. If they
do not leave, the security guard/proprietary private security officer may arrest
(citizen’s arrest) them for trespassing, and should call local law enforcement
without unreasonable delay.
When on property and not employed as a security guard/proprietary private
security officer, your authority is no greater than any other person’s. On the
other hand, your authority to question people is greater on property where you
are on duty as a security guard/proprietary private security officer.
WHAT ARE THE PROPERTY OWNER’S RIGHTS?
The owner of the property has the right to establish certain rules on his property
that may not be a part of the Penal Code. For instance, if an employee shows up
for work drunk, he may be violating a company rule. The client may want the
employee sent home or may intend to fire the employee. How this situation is
handled is between the employer and the employee, and has nothing to do with
the police or public law. A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE
SECURITY OFFICER MUST KNOW WHAT THE EMPLOYER’S POLICY
STATES.
Trying to enforce company policy could, however, result in a violation of public
law, by you or by the employee.
For example, if the employee is asked to leave and refuses, he may be arrested
for violating the public law against trespassing. On the other hand, if the security
guard/proprietary private security officer uses unnecessary force in removing the
employee from the premises, the security guard/proprietary private security
officer may be arrested for committing assault and/or battery.

(Revised1 10/11)

29

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

HOW SHOULD YOU HANDLE VIOLATIONS?

As a security guard/proprietary private security officer, acting as a representative
of the owner on the owner’s private property, you can physically prevent a person
from entering an area - but only as a last resort! Be sure to check with your
employer regarding the way to handle a violation of company rules, as well as
how to handle violation’ of certain laws.

EXAM REVIEW NO. 5 

NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 12 ON PRIVATE PROPERTY OWNED BY YOUR EMPLOYER, YOUR
AUTHORITY TO QUESTION IS:
A. 	No more than any private person’s.
B. 	The same as the owner of the property and greater than that of other private
parties.
C. 	The same as peace officer’s.
Q. 13 EMPLOYEES ARE TOLD THEY MAY NOT ENTER THE FACTORY WITHOUT
THEIR IDENTIFICATION BADGES. ONE EMPLOYEE SHOWS UP WITHOUT
HIS BADGE AND TRIES TO ENTER. HE IS VIOLATING:
A. 	A company rule.
B. 	A public law.
C. 	Both a company rule and a public law.
Q. 14 IF YOU ASKED THE EMPLOYEE REFERRED TO IN QUESTION #13 TO
LEAVE AND HE REFUSES, HE IS VIOLATING A PUBLIC LAW.
A. 	Yes
B. 	No

(Revised1 10/11)

30

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
A BASIS FOR MAKING DECISIONS:
The very nature of security work requires security personnel to be constantly
aware of their surroundings, the law, and the mission of private security in
today’s society.
Three factors to consider when making timely and reasonable decisions are:
FACTS:
¾

Consider the FACTS involved in the incident. The facts of any incident
will be learned by answering the following questions:
WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? HOW? and possibly WHY?

LAW:
¾

Consider the LAWS that may apply to the incident. Has a city,
county, state, or federal law been violated?

POLICY:
¾

Consider any POLICY that may apply to the incident. What is the
POLICY of your employer regarding this incident?

(Revised1 10/11)

31

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART E.
INSPECTIONS
WHAT IS AN INSPECTION?
As a security guard/proprietary private security officer, your employer may enlist
your assistance in conducting inspections of employees. This is not a search.
Always make sure the employer has notified the employees first. Such
inspections are often conducted at the end of the work day by looking into
employees’ cars, lunch pails, purses, or tote bags to make sure unauthorized
items are not being take off the premises.
WHAT IS AN INSPECTION?
An inspection is always conducted with the employees’ cooperation.
For example, when you want to look inside a lunch pail, purse, or tote bag, ask
the employee to open it up for you to look inside. If you can’t see the contents
because something is in the way, ask the employee to remove the obstruction. If
the employee tries to hand the item to you, politely refuse. NEVER TOUCH THE
EMPLOYEE OR HANDLE THE EMPLOYEE'S PROPERTY.
WHAT IS AN INSPECTION?
Understand company policy. Generally, if an employee does not cooperate, you
should record:
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾

Date, time, and location
Name
Physical description
Badge ID number
License number of any vehicles involved
Then make a full report, in writing to your employer

The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer. Some
employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay
within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest.

(Revised1 10/11)

32

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

EXAM REVIEW NO. 6
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 15 YOUR EMPLOYER ASKS YOU TO INSPECT THE PERSONAL BELONGINGS
OF EMPLOYEES LEAVING THE PLANT. HE HAS ANNOUNCED THIS POLICY
TO ALL EMPLOYEES. WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER ABOUT
INSPECTIONS?
A.
B.
C.
D.

Never inspect without cooperation from the employee.
Never touch the employee.
Never touch the employee’s belongings.
All the rules above.

Q. 16 AN EMPLOYEE WHO IS LEAVING WORK WALKS UP TO YOU AND HANDS
YOU HIS LUNCH PAIL FOR INSPECTION. WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
A. Accept it and open it to look inside.
B. Decline to take it and instead ask the employee to open it so you can inspect
the contents.
C. Take it but have the employee open it.
Q. 17 YOU ARE WALKING THROUGH THE PARKING LOT AND OBSERVE
COMPANY EQUIPMENT IN THE BACK SEAT OF A CAR THROUGH A
CLOSED BUT UNOBSTRUCTED WINDOW OF THE VEHICLE. YOU MAY:
A. 	

B. 	

Look closely through the window (without entering the vehicle) at the
equipment, and make notes which identify the equipment, the make and
model of the vehicle and its license number as well as the vehicle’s
location in the parking lot, and render this report to your employer or client.
Enter the vehicle to determine if the equipment is stolen and if so take it to
your employer or client.

(Revised1 10/11)

33

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART F.
THE SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER’S LEGAL 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND LIABILITIES

Actions based on poor judgement can lead to legal problems for both you and your
employer. You must, by law, avoid certain actions. Legal responsibilities and liabilities
that affect you are presented in this section.
CRIMINAL LIABILITIES
WHO HAS THE POWER TO ARREST?
The authority to arrest is given to all private persons. A security
guard/proprietary private security officer has the same power to arrest as any
other private person. However, because the security officer wears a uniform and
badge, this can lead to misunderstanding and abuse.
WHAT IS AN ARREST?
An arrest is a form of lawful control by one person over the actions or movements
of another. An arrest is taking a person into custody IN A CASE and IN THE
MANNER authorized by law. An arrest may be made by a peace officer or a
private person (citizen’s arrest).
WHAT IS CRIMINAL LIABILITY?
Crimes are generally defined in penal statutes of a state, or the ordinances of
local cities or counties. All persons are expected to obey these laws. Anyone
who violates a criminal law is subject to a fine, and/or a term in jail, or prison,
depending on the type of crime. The potential for punishment as a result of
violating a criminal law is called CRIMINAL LIABILITY. Some acts by security
guard/proprietary private security officers for which criminal liability is possible
include:
¾ INTIMIDATION:
Threatening physical harm or otherwise frightening people when they do
not cooperate or confess to a crime.

(Revised1 10/11)

34

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
¾ EXCESSIVE PHYSICAL FORCE:
Where an arrest is made, the law allows only the use of physical force,
which is reasonable or necessary to restrain the suspect if he/she is
resisting, in order to make the arrest. Where more force is used than that
which the law allows, the arresting party is said to be using “excessive
force” and may be held criminally as well as civilly liable. An example of
excessive force is the discharge of a firearm in shooting a suspect in order
to protect personal property. By law, deadly force is allowed only to
protect lives.
¾ USE OF UNAUTHORIZED DEADLY WEAPONS:
Becoming registered as a security guard DOES NOT entitle a security
guard to carry a weapon. Some weapons such as knives with blades
longer then 2 inches or switch-blade knives, brass knuckles, nunchakus,
or sawed-off shotguns cannot be carried by security guards. Security
guards cannot carry a gun and/or a baton unless they have the additional
exposed firearm permit and/or baton certificate. If they carry the gun
concealed they must also have a concealed weapons permit issued by
their local law enforcement agency.
Proprietary private security officers are unarmed and cannot carry a
gun or a baton. Proprietary private security officers cannot carry any
deadly weapons. Proprietary private security officer cannot carry
weapons such as switchblade knives or knife’s with blades over 2 inches
in length, brass knuckles, nunchakus, batons, or guns as they are
considered deadly weapons.
¾ UNLAWFUL USE OF DEFENSIVE WEAPONS:
Security guards cannot carry handguns and batons unless authorized by
the Bureau. Security guards are allowed to carry an exposed firearm
and/or baton only after the security guard completes the Bureau
recognized training and the appropriate permits are issued.
¾ FALSE ARREST:
MISDEMEANOR ARREST - a private person making a misdemeanor
arrest may be found criminally liable for a false arrest if the arrest is made
and the arresting party did not actually observe the suspect commit the
misdemeanor in his/her presence.
(Revised1 10/11)

35

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
FELONY ARREST - a private person making a felony arrest may be found
criminally liable for a false arrest if the arrest is made or caused to be
made by others and the arresting party does not have reasonable cause
to believe that the person arrested committed the felony.
EVERYONE HAS CIVIL LIABILITY
The legal term “PARTY” can be a person, company, or organization.
When one party believes it has been injured, damaged, or wronged by another
party, it may make a lawful claim for damages.
The claim or “LAWSUIT” is presented to a civil court where both parties may
explain their positions to a judge or jury.
A court judge may decide whether or not one party in a lawsuit has damaged
another.
If damages are due, the court will decide, after a trial, how much money must be
paid by one party to another.
The responsibility for the things we do, or fail to do, with the possibility of being
sued by another is called “CIVIL LIABILITY.”

WHY IS YOUR EMPLOYER ALSO RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR ACTIONS?
As a security guard/proprietary private security officer, you are a representative
of your employer. Therefore, any negligence or wrongful acts committed by you
may also cause your employer to be held responsible. Suits may be brought
against you (the security guard/proprietary private security officer) and/or your
employer.
FOR EXAMPLE:
A security guard/proprietary private security officer makes a false arrest. The
person arrested may file a civil suit for damages against the security
guard/proprietary private security officer, his employer, and all of those believed
to be responsible.
Even if the civil suit against you (the security guard/proprietary private security
officer) or your employer fails, the action may be costly for you and your
employer to defend.
(Revised1 10/11)

36

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
WHEN SHOULD A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY
OFFICER ARREST?
A security guard/proprietary private security officer who is expected to make
arrests should receive explicit instructions and training on how to do so. Training
should make clear the circumstances under which an arrest can be made and
the procedure for making it, so as to minimize civil liability.
As a security guard/proprietary private security officer, you should work primarily
in a preventive role. Use good judgement and exercise caution when faced with
an arrest situation.
Every person must be accountable for his/her actions. Acts of a security guard
or proprietary private security officer in an arrest situation are easy to defend
when good judgement and good faith have been used. A security
guard/proprietary private security officer must not be afraid to act in an arrest
situation, but must use restraint and good judgment.

EXAM REVIEW NO. 7
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 18 TELLING A SUSPECT “YOU’D BETTER START TALKING OR YOU’LL BE
SORRY,” IS AN EXAMPLE OF:
A. Intimidation
B. Excessive physical force
Q. 19 NO OTHER PERMIT IS REQUIRED TO CARRY A GUN IF YOU HAVE A
SECURITY GUARD REGISTRATION, ALARM RESPONDERS
REGISTRATION, PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR LICENSE OR PRIVATE PATROL
OPERATOR LICENSE.
A. True
B. False

(Revised1 10/11)

37

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

Q. 20 WHAT TYPE OF LIABILITY REFERS TO THE RIGHT A PARTY HAS TO
INITIATE A LAWSUIT?
A. Criminal liability
B. Civil liability
Q. 21 IF A SECURITY GUARD IS CHARGED WITH MAKING A FALSE ARREST,
WHAT TYPE OF LIABILITY IS INCURRED?
A. Criminal liability
B. Civil liability

(Revised1 10/11)

38

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART G.
FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING AN ARREST
ARE SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICERS
REQUIRED TO MAKE ARRESTS?
At no time are you, as a security guard/proprietary private security officer,
obligated to make an arrest. You may be at the scene when a violation occurs,
but you do not have to make an arrest.
WHAT ARE YOU PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES?
Your first responsibility should be prevention. After a crime has been committed,
your responsibility should be to observe and report.
The purpose of this training is not to encourage you to make more arrests (citizen
arrests), but to teach you the law concerning arrests, so you will know what you
can and cannot do under the law.
The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer.
Some employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long
as they stay within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons
(citizen’s) arrest.

WHAT FACTORS SHOULD YOU CONSIDER?
In addition to the law, there are other important factors you should consider
before making an arrest. Here are a few:
1. PHYSICAL SIZE. Is the suspect bigger or stronger than you are? In better
physical condition?
2. WEAPONS. Is the suspect armed? Could he/she be carrying a concealed
weapon?
3. ESCAPE. If you do not make an arrest at this moment, will the suspect get
away? Not just leave the scene - but get away completely? If you get a good
description and call the police WITHOUT DELAY, the police may be able to make
the arrest.

(Revised1 10/11)

39

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
4. TYPE OF OFFENSE. Is the offense major or minor? You should be more
concerned with major offenses. A person setting fire on a loading dock is a more
likely candidate for arrest than kids climbing a fence to steal apples from your
employer’s orchards.
5. RELATION TO YOUR JOB. Does the offense relate to property or persons
you were hired to protect? As a good citizen, you want to uphold the law, but
your first duty is to your employer. After all, your employer is paying you!

EXAM REVIEW NO. 8

NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 22 WHILE YOU ARE ON DUTY AT A SHOPPING CENTER, YOU SEE A 12-YEAR
OLD JABBING AN ICE PICK INTO A PATRON'S CAR TIRES. YOU SHOULD
FIRST:
A. 	Pick the 12-year old up and throw him/her out of the parking lot.
B. 	Get a good description and call the police.
C. 	Run at the 12-year old and yell so the child will run away.
D. 	Approach him/her and tell them to stop.
Q. 23 A MAN IS SMASHING TABLES AND CHAIRS AT A BAR YOU ARE SECURITY
GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICERING. HE IS ABOUT 6'
8" AND WEIGHS 280 LBS. YOU SHOULD:
A. 	Consider your safety and the safety of others.
B. 	Request patrons of the bar to clear the area.
C. 	Call the police for assistance.
D. 	Take all of the measures above.
Q. 24 YOU ARE SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY
WORKING IN A JEWELRY STORE AT CLOSING TIME. THE LAST PATRON
HAS LEFT AND YOUR EMPLOYER IS ABOUT TO LOCK UP. YOU NOTICE A
MAN SITTING IN A CAR AND THE MOTOR IS RUNNING. YOU CLEARLY SEE
HE HAS A GUN IN HIS HAND. YOU SHOULD FIRST:
A. 	Run out to the car and tell him to freeze.
B. 	Have the owner call the police and get a description and vehicle license
number if possible.
C. 	Walk to the car and order the man to leave.
(Revised1 10/11)

40

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Q. 25 YOU ARE WORKING AT A CLUB WHERE EVERYTHING IS QUIET. D
	 OWN
THE STREET TWO MEN GET INTO A FIGHT. YOU SHOULD:
A. 	Stay where you are. You have been hired to guard the dance. You could call
the police if it doesn’t involve leaving your post.
B. 	Call someone over to watch the dance while you go down the street to break
up the fight.
C. 	Shout down the street for the men to break it up.
Q. 	26 YOU ARE PATROLLING A SHOPPING AREA WHEN YOU SEE A JUVENILE
RIDING A SKATEBOARD. YOU KNOW THAT SKATING IS AGAINST THE
MALL POLICY. YOUR BEST COURSE OF ACTION WOULD BE TO:
A. 	Handle the matter formally as a criminal offense.
B. Politely approach the boy and inform him of shopping mall policy regarding
skating in the mall.

The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer. Some
employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay
within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest.

(Revised1 10/11)

41

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART H
ARRESTABLE OFFENSES
WHAT ARE THE THREE CATEGORIES OF ARRESTABLE OFFENSES?
The Penal Code defines criminal offenses. This program will not attempt to
cover all of them, but will cover many of the most common ones. The Penal
Code classifies crimes into three categories: Infractions, Misdemeanors, and
Felonies.
INFRACTIONS
Infractions are offenses that are punishable only by a modest monetary fine.
There is normally no jail sentence imposed for committing an offense, which is
defined as an infraction, and the person committing the offense is normally cited
at the scene in a fashion similar to the issuance of a traffic citation. The offender
is normally not taken into custody or arrested but merely detained for purposes of
issuing the citation. For the most part, infractions are reserved for specified
traffic violations such as speeding (California Vehicle Code §40000.1), though
other statutes impose infraction penalties as well (smoking on public
transportation, Health and Safety Code §25949.8; littering public property, Penal
Code §374.4.) Because most infractions occur on public property, public
highways and roadways, or in areas not routinely patrolled by private security,
most security guard/proprietary private security officers will not be confronted
with situations involving the violations of laws which carry infraction penalties.
Nor are private security guards/proprietary private security officers normally
authorized to issue citations, commonly known as notices to appear in court. For
this reason, enforcement of laws involving infractions are usually reserved for law
enforcement officers.

(Revised1 10/11)

42

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
MISDEMEANORS

Misdemeanors are offenses that are punishable by a fine and/or term in the county jail.
The following two conditions must exist in order for you to arrest a person on a
misdemeanor charge:
1. The misdemeanor must have been attempted or committed.
2. It must have taken place (happened) in your presence.

The following are common misdemeanors (PC stands for Penal Code):
¾ ASSAULT

(§240 PC) An unlawful attempt coupled with the present
ability to commit a violent injury upon the person of another.

¾ BATTERY

(§242 PC) Any willful and unlawful use of force or violence
upon another person.

¾ DISTURBING
THE PEACE

¾ INDECENT
EXPOSURE

(§415 PC) Unlawfully fighting in a public place or challenging
to fight; malicious and willful disturbances of another by loud
and unreasonable noise; using offensive words to provoke a
violent reaction.

(§314 PC) The act of exposing the person or private parts
thereof in any public place where other persons may be
offended.

¾ LITTERING

(§374 PC) Throwing waste matter in a place other than
designated containers.

¾ PETTY THEFT

(§488 PC) The taking of property of a value of $950.00 or
less (this is often the case in shoplifting.)

¾ TRESPASSING (§602 PC) Entering posted property without permission.
Damaging or destroying property, or refusing to leave when
asked by the owner or his agent.
¾ VANDALISM

(§594 PC) Maliciously defacing, damaging, or destroying
property.

(Revised1 10/11)

43

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
FELONIES
A felony is a more serious offense that is punishable by a sentence of death,
imprisonment in a jail or prison, and/or a fine.
The following two conditions must exist in order to arrest a person on a felony charge:
1. The felony must have been committed.
2. A reasonable cause must exist to believe that the person being arrested
actually committed the crime. Such reasonable cause must be based on
evidence linking the person to the crime. Examples of such evidence may
include physical evidence such as articles of clothing belonging to the suspect
and left at the scene of the crime, or testimonial evidence such as observations
by the security guard/proprietary private security officer or by other persons
which are told to the security guard/proprietary private security officer in which
the suspect was observed committing the crime.
The following are common felonies (PC stands for Penal Code):
¾ ASSAULT WITH A
DEADLY WEAPON 	

(§245 PC) Assault of a person by another with a 

deadly weapon or instrument or by any means of 

force likely to produce great bodily injury. 


¾ ARSON 	

(§451 PC) The willful and unlawful setting of a fire.

¾ GRAND THEFT

(§487 PC) The taking of money, labor, or real or
personal property of a value exceeding $950.00 or the
taking of property from the person of another.

¾ BURGLARY

(§459 PC) The entering of the residence or property
of another with the intent to commit grand theft, petty
theft, or any felony.

¾ KIDNAPPING

(§207 PC) Taking and transporting a person against
his will.

¾ ROBBERY

(§11 PC) By force or intimidation, taking personal
property from a person or from the immediate
presence of a person against that person’s will

.
(Revised1 10/11)

44

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
¾ RAPE
(§261 PC) Forcing sexual intercourse.
¾ MANSLAUGHTER

(§192 PC) The unlawful killing of another human
being includes voluntary, involuntary, or vehicular
manslaughter.

¾ MURDER

(§187 PC) The unlawful killing of another human
being with malice and forethought.

EXAM REVIEW NO. 9

NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions: 

Identify the following crimes, based on the definitions you have just learned.

Q. 27 TWO MEN GRAB AN EMPLOYEE GETTING OUT OF HIS/HER CAR IN THE
PARKING LOT. THEY SHOVE THE EMPLOYEE INTO THEIR CAR AND
START DRIVING AWAY. THIS MAY BE:
A. Kidnapping, a felony.
B. Robbery, a felony.
Q. 28 A FAMILY RETURNS HOME TO DISCOVER THEIR HOUSEHOLD
FURNISHINGS ARE MISSING. THEY MAY BE VICTIMS OF:
A. Burglary, a felony.
B. Robbery, a felony.
Q. 29 AN EX-EMPLOYEE OF A SUPERMARKET WAITS IN HER CAR UNTIL THE
MANAGER CLOSES THE BUILDING AND WALKS TOWARDS HIS CAR. SHE
STEPS OUT OF HER CAR, POINTS A GUN AT THE MANAGER, AND FIRES
THREE SHOTS, KILLING THE MANAGER. WHAT CRIME MAY HAVE BEEN
COMMITTED?
A. Arson, a felony.
B. Murder, a felony.

(Revised1 10/11)

45

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Q. 30 TOM IS ANGERED BECAUSE JIM WAS DANCING WITH TOM’S GIRLFRIEND.
TOM WAITS OUTSIDE THE DOOR WITH A LARGE BOARD HE PICKED UP
FROM A CONSTRUCTION SITE. WHEN JIM COMES OUT OF THE
BUILDING, TOM SWINGS THE BOARD AND HITS JIM IN THE FACE. THIS IS:
A. Assault with a deadly weapon, a felony.
B. Battery, a misdemeanor.
Q. 31 SECRETARIES LINDA AND JUDY GET INTO AN ARGUMENT OVER PAY
RAISES. SECRETARY JUDY LEAVES THE ARGUMENT TO GO TO THE
REST ROOM. SECRETARY LINDA, STILL ANGRY, HIDES BEHIND A LARGE
BOOKCASE. AS JUDY RETURNS, LINDA TRIES TO TOPPLE THE
BOOKCASE ONTO JUDY. THE BOOKCASE BARELY MISSES HER. THIS IS:
A. Assault, a misdemeanor
B. Assault with a deadly weapon, a felony.
C. Either A or B
Q. 32 A MAN WHO HAS PURCHASED A NEW $975.00 LAWN MOWER PUSHES IT
OUT TO HIS CAR AND LEAVES IT BESIDE THE TRUNK WHILE HE GOES
BACK INTO THE STORE TO GET A SACK OF FERTILIZER. WHILE HE IS
GONE, SOMEONE DRIVES UP IN A STATION WAGON, PUTS THE NEW
LAWN MOWER IN THE BACK OF THE WAGON, AND DRIVES OFF. WHAT
CRIME IS THIS?
A. Robbery, a felony.
B. Grand theft, a felony.
Q. 33 A MAN IS SITTING IN THE LOBBY OF AN AUTOMOBILE SHOWROOM. AT
5:00 P.M. THE SECURITY OFFICER STARTS TO LOCK UP FOR THE NIGHT
AND ASKS THE MAN TO LEAVE. THE MAN REFUSES, SO THE SECURITY
OFFICER ASKS IF THE MAN IS WAITING FOR SOMEONE. THE MAN
REPLIES, “NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS.” AGAIN, THE SECURITY OFFICER
ASKS THE MAN TO LEAVE. HE REFUSES. THE MAN HAS COMMITTED
THE CRIME OF:
A. Trespassing, a misdemeanor.
B. Disturbing the peace, a misdemeanor.

(Revised1 10/11)

46

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Q. 34 AN ANGRY EMPLOYEE POURS LIGHTER FLUID IN A TRASH CONTAINER IN
THE STOCK ROOM, THEN LIGHTS IT WITH A MATCH. THIS IS:
A. Vandalism, a misdemeanor.
B. Arson, a felony.
Q. 35 YOU DRIVE UP TO A STORE AT 2:00 A.M. AND OBSERVE TWO MEN
BREAKING OPEN A DOOR AND BEGINNING TO LOAD A PICKUP TRUCK
WITH MERCHANDISE. WHEN THEY SEE YOU, THEY TURN AND RUN. THIS
IS:
A. Burglary, a felony.
B. Robbery, a felony.

(Revised1 10/11)

47

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART I.
PRIVATE PERSONS ARREST
Although your normal responsibilities include the preventing of problems and
observation of detail after an offense, there may be rare occasions when you consider it
necessary to arrest. Every company in the private security industry has different
policies about when and if you should arrest. If you don’t know your company’s
policy, find out.
A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s legal powers to arrest are
no greater than those of any other private citizen. An arrest made by such a
private party is commonly known as a “citizen’s arrest.”
According to the Penal Code Section 834, “An arrest is taking a person into
custody in a manner authorized by law.” Penal Code Section 834 also goes on to
state that, “An arrest may be made by a peace officer or by a private person.”
Penal Code Section 837 specifies the conditions under which you, as a private
person, may make an arrest. “A private person may arrest another.
1. 	For a public offense committed or attempted in his presence.
2. 	When the person arrested has committed a felony, although not in his
presence.
3. 	When a felony has been, in fact, committed and he has reasonable cause for
believing the person arrested to have committed it.”
In making your decision to arrest someone, you must first determine whether the
offense is a felony or a misdemeanor.

(Revised1 10/11)

48

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAMPLE OF A MISDEMEANOR OFFENSE
If you observed a person picking up a rock and throwing it through a plate glass
window, that person could be arrested. Breaking a window is a misdemeanor
offense and you know that he committed the offense because you saw the
person do it.
On the other hand, consider this case: You hear a plate glass window break and
rush to the front of the building only to see a group of teenagers laughing and
milling around. Two of them point to one of the others and say, “He did it.” In
this instance, you would not have grounds for an arrest. It appears an offense
has been committed, but you did not actually see the person doing it.
REMEMBER:
To arrest someone for the commission of a misdemeanor, the offense must
be:
1) committed in your presence; or 2) attempted in your presence!
EXAMPLE OF A FELONY OFFENSE
You are patrolling an apartment complex and you see an apartment door open.
You look inside and see that the place has been burglarized. As you leave the
apartment, you see two men carrying large bundles of assorted valuables to a
waiting van. They see you and speed up. You call for them to halt, but they load
up the van and are in the process of getting into the front seat. You are justified
in questioning these men.
On the other hand, consider this: You are told by an apartment dweller that he
was just burglarized and you see two men walking towards a van with the motor
running. The men look around suspiciously but are carrying nothing. You should
get descriptions and observe and report.
REMEMBER:
To arrest someone for committing a felony, 1) the felony must have been
committed and 2) you must have reasonable cause for believing that the person
you are arresting actually committed the felony.

(Revised1 10/11)

49

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO. 10
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Analyze the following incidents and decide if you have grounds for arrest.
Q. 36 YOU ARE MAKING YOUR ROUNDS AT A SHOPPING CENTER AND COME
TO A PICKUP TRUCK PARKED AT THE CURB. IN THE BACK OF THE
TRUCK ARE TWO COLOR TV SETS STILL IN THEIR PACKING BOXES. THE
TWO MEN IN THE TRUCK LOOK SUSPICIOUS. ACCORDING TO THE LAW
YOU CAN ARREST THESE TWO MEN.
A. 	True
B. 	False
Q.37 	 YOU ARE ON DUTY AS A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE
SECURITY OFFICER AT A FACTORY AND YOU OBSERVE A SUSPECT
POURING WHAT APPEARS TO BE GASOLINE ON THE GROUND NEXT TO
SOME STORAGE TANKS. AS YOU APPROACH, HE LIGHTS A MATCH AND
THROWS IT ON THE LIQUID, IGNITING IT. ACCORDING TO THE LAW YOU
CAN ARREST THIS MAN.
A. 	True
B. 	False
Q. 38 ACCORDING TO THE LAW, WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS
MUST EXIST BEFORE YOU CAN MAKE A MISDEMEANOR ARREST?
A. 	The suspect must admit to the crime.
B. 	The crime must have been committed or attempted in your presence.
C. 	Someone told you the suspect did it.

Q. 39 ACCORDING TO THE LAW, WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS
MUST EXIST BEFORE YOU CAN MAKE A FELONY ARREST?
A. 	The felony must have been committed and you have reason to believe the
person you are arresting actually committed it.
B. 	You think a crime has been committed and the person you are arresting is the
only person around.
C. A citizen tells you he thinks someone was just assaulted.
(Revised1 10/11)

50

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART J.
MAKING AN ARREST
THE SUSPECT
According to our legal system, a person is innocent until proven guilty. It is up to
the court to decide if a person is guilty - not the police, not the district attorney,
and not a private person. When a person is arrested, that person is called a
suspect. The person is then considered a suspect until the court finds the person
guilty or innocent. Therefore, do not refer to an arrested person as the “criminal,”
“offender,” “robber,” “murderer,” “burglar,” or by any other term which implies
guilt. You can say “he,” “she,” “they,” “this person,” or “the suspect” since none
of these terms imply guilt.
MAKING AN ARREST
If you should happen to be in a situation where a citizen arrest is called for, you
should tell the person that he/she is under citizen’s arrest and what the charges
are, and your authority to make the citizen’s arrest. Once you say “You are
under arrest for burglary,” the suspect may or may not cooperate. If the suspect
resists and tries to escape, you must then decide whether or not to use
reasonable force. You may ask as many persons as you think necessary to help
you in making the arrest.
USE OF FORCE IN AN ARREST
If a suspect resists arrest, you are allowed to use reasonable force to subdue the
suspect. Reasonable force is that degree of force that is not excessive and is
appropriate in protecting oneself or one’s property. If the suspect submits
willingly, no force is necessary. If a suspect should resist arrest, remember that
the only force allowed is that which is reasonable and necessary to overcome the
resistance.
WHAT IS EXCESSIVE FORCE?
Examples of excessive force include knocking unconscious an unarmed suspect
when he is only trying to leave the scene. Handcuffs may be used on persons
who have resisted or on suspects you think may be trying to resist or escape.

(Revised1 10/11)

51

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
WHAT IS DETAINMENT?
A person who voluntarily responds to questioning and is not actually
restrained (i.e., free to go at any time) is considered to be detained. A
person may be detained by the police for further questioning in an
investigation, and that person is not necessarily under arrest. The police
have the authority to detain a person against his/her will and still not arrest
that person. Security guard/proprietary private security officers do not
have the authority to detain a person against their will except under Penal
Code Section 490.5, which is covered in detail further on in the study
manual. (MERCHANTS PRIVILEGE RULE, PART L)
WHEN IS A SUSPECT CONSIDERED TO BE UNDER ARREST?
It should be clear to the suspect that he/she is under arrest after you have told
the suspect of your intention, cause, and authority to arrest him/her. However,
there are also other actions that may make a suspect feel he/she is under arrest.
If, because of your uniform, badge, hat, or verbal actions, the suspect concludes
he/she must answer your questions or is not free to walk away, he/she may
justifiably claim he was under arrest.
WHAT IS THE RIGHT WAY TO APPROACH SUSPECTS?
Guilt by association is not a lawful way to make arrests. Let’s look at an
example:
It is 11:00 p.m. and a security guard/proprietary private security officer is making
his/her rounds of the plant when he finds Gate No. 5 open. There are pry marks
on the chain that normally holds the gate shut. About 50 yards from the gate is
an old pickup truck parked by the side of the road. The hood is up, and two men
are bent over looking at the motor. The proprietary security officer proprietary
walks over and says, “All right, you guys. What are you doing here?” One of the
men responds by saying, “What’s it to you pal?” The security guard/proprietary
private security officer answers angrily, “Look, you better tell me what you’re
doing here or you’re in trouble!” Neither man replies. One of them gets into the
driver’s seat and turns over the engine. The proprietary security officer
proprietary then asks, “Didn’t you hear what I said?” The other man says, “Leave
us alone.” The proprietary security officer proprietary moves to the front of the
truck and grabs the man’s arm, stating, “You guys aren’t going anywhere until
you answer a few questions.”

(Revised1 10/11)

52

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
ANALYSIS
Finding the gate open with pry marks on the chain does not necessarily mean
that a crime has been committed. There are a number of possible explanations
short of forced entry. Next, there is nothing to tie the two men to forcing the gate
open except that their truck was parked nearby. The security guard/proprietary
private security officer cannot demand that the men answer his questions. The
security guard/proprietary private security officer’s attitude, tone of voice,
uniform, and badge could easily have made the men believe that they were being
arrested. If the security guard/proprietary private security officer refused to let
them leave and if it turned out they had nothing to do with forcing the gate, the
men could sue the security guard/proprietary private security officer for false
arrest and for battery, because the security guard/proprietary private security
officer grabbed the man’s arm.
WHAT THE SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER
SHOULD HAVE DONE
First, he/she should have examined the condition of the gate carefully, recorded
the license number of the truck, and obtained a description of the two men. Next,
the security guard/proprietary private security officer should have secured the
gate and reported its condition to his/her supervisor, being careful to watch for
other suspicious activity. The security guard/proprietary private security officer
may or may not decide to talk with the two men. He might enter into a friendlier
conversation with them by asking if they had seen anyone near the gate. If they
are not cooperative, there is nothing the security guard/proprietary private
security officer can do except observe closely. The security guard/proprietary
private security officer should never touch another person except when
reasonable force is necessary when placing that person under citizen’s arrest.

The above direction is a suggestion and is at the discretion of the employer. Some
employers may want their security personnel to be more proactive as long as they stay
within the parameters of what is lawful regarding private persons (citizen’s) arrest.

(Revised1 10/11)

53

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
A BETTER APPROACH
Remember the part about friendly conversation? Although you cannot demand
answers from a person, you can always engage them in casual conversation.
Here is a better approach:

“Hi! Got car troubles?” One of the men replies, “Yeah! This darn thing
shorts out every once in a while.” The security guard/proprietary private
security officer then asks, “Say, have you seen anybody around the gate?”
The men reply, “No, we haven’t seen anyone except you.” The security
guard/proprietary private security officer says, “How long have you been
here?” “Oh, maybe five minutes.” “Well, thanks for your help. If you need
to call for road service, I can make the call for you.” “Thanks anyway, but
we’ll get it going.” The security guard/proprietary private security officer
then walks away.
The security guard/proprietary private security officer may not have gotten much
information, but at least he/she had a chance to observe each man closely and
check their activities without running the risk of bad public relations or a falsecitizen’s arrest suit.

(Revised1 10/11)

54

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO. 11
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 40 WHAT SHOULD YOU SAY TO A PERSON YOU ARE ARRESTING FOR
BURGLARY?
A.
B.
C.
D.

State your intent to arrest.
State the charge, which is suspicion of burglary.
State your authority to make the arrest.
All of the above.

Q. 41 ONCE YOU DETAIN A PERSON AGAINST HIS WILL, YOU HAVE PLACED
THAT PERSON UNDER CITIZEN’S ARREST.
A. True
B. False
Q. 42 IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING WITH A SUSPECT IN TRYING TO GET THE
SUSPECT UNDER CONTROL AND THERE ARE A NUMBER OF
BYSTANDERS, WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY YOU CAN DO?
A. Ask the bystanders to help you.
B. Demand that the bystanders help you.
C. Demand the bystanders call the police.
Q. 43 UNDER WHAT CONDITIONS MAY “REASONABLE FORCE” BE USED
AGAINST A SUSPECT?
A.
B.
C.
D.

Protection of self.
Protection of others.
To overcome suspect resistance.
Any of the above.

(Revised1 10/11)

55

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART K.
SEARCHING THE SUSPECT

You should avoid searching a suspect. Laws protect the rights of suspects who are
being searched. This section explains what you should and should not do.
You are not allowed to search someone in order to find evidence for making a citizen’s
arrest.
When you see someone steal something you have been hired to protect, you may first
detain the person by telling him/her that they are under arrest for theft. Then you may
physically detain the person for the police to search. You should not give the suspect
an opportunity to dispose of any items taken.
If you have reasonable cause to believe you are in physical danger by detaining the
suspect, you may search the individual for weapons.
REMEMBER
You may search for only one thing – WEAPONS (Penal Code §846).
METHOD OF “FRISK” SEARCHING FOR WEAPONS
A frisk is nothing more than a quick check to see if a suspect has a concealed
weapon. This should occur after the suspect is arrested. To frisk a suspect,
follow these steps:
A.
B.
C.
D.

Stand behind the suspect
Run your hands over the outside of their clothing
Pat those areas where a weapon might be concealed
Remove anything that feels like a weapon

CAUTION
Do not remove any article that does not feel like a weapon.

(Revised1 10/11)

56

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
IMPORTANT
Always use discretion when touching a suspect. When ever possible have a
security guard/proprietary private security officer of the same sex conduct the
frisk, and always try to have witnesses to the frisk. STAY ALERT! Don’t relax
after a frisk or take your eyes off the suspect after you have completed the frisk.
They may still have a weapon you did not find!
The frisk should be done quickly, and if possible, with another security
guard/proprietary private security officer standing by. Practice the frisk on a
partner by having him/her conceal a small object. During a frisk, you may also
discover illegal items called contraband. The most common type of contraband
is narcotics. If you discover contraband while you are frisking for concealed
weapons, leave it alone and tell the police when they arrive.

(Revised1 10/11)

57

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

EXAM REVIEW NO. 12
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 44 ACCORDING TO THE TEXT, YOU SHOULD:
A. 	Not search a suspect unless you have reason to believe he/she has a
weapon.
B. 	Search all suspects immediately.
C. 	Search only persons suspected of major crimes.
D. 	Search only those persons with a police record.
Q. 45 WHAT MUST YOU DO BEFORE YOU FRISK A SUSPECT?
A. 	Handcuff the suspect.
B. 	Arrest the suspect.
C. 	Tie the suspect’s hands over his head.
D. 	Write you a report.
Q. 46 A FRISK BY A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY
OFFICER IS A SEARCH FOR:
A. 	Weapons only.
B. 	Stolen property only.
C. 	Weapons or stolen property.
D. Anything.

(Revised1 10/11)

58

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
ILLUSTRATION OF THE FRISK 


(Revised1 10/11)

59

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART L.
SEARCHING A SUSPECT UNDER THE MERCHANT’S PRIVILEGE RULE
The Merchant’s Privilege Rule is found in the California Penal Code Section 490.5.
Subdivisions (f) and (g) of this statute provide legal authority for a merchant or their
employee or agent, including a security officer, to detain persons suspected of
shoplifting in a retail store. In part, the law states:
“(f)(1) A merchant may detain a person for a reasonable time for the purpose of
conducting an investigation in a reasonable manner whenever the merchant has
probable cause to believe the person to be detained is attempting to unlawfully
take or has unlawfully taken merchandise from the merchant’s premises.
(2) In making the detention a merchant may use a reasonable amount of nondeadly force necessary to protect himself or herself and to prevent escape of the
person detained or the loss of property.
(3) During the period of detention any items which a merchant has probable
cause to believe were unlawfully taken from the premises of the merchant and
which are in plain view may be examined by the merchant for purposes of
ascertaining the ownership thereof.
(4) A merchant or an agent thereof, having probable cause to believe the person
detained was attempting to unlawfully take or has taken any item from the
premises, may request the person detained to voluntarily surrender the item.
Should the person detained refuse to surrender the item of which there is
probable cause to believe has been unlawfully taken from the premises, or
attempted to be unlawfully taken from the premises, a limited and reasonable
search may be conducted by those authorized to make the detention in order to
recover the item. Only packages, shopping bags, handbags or other property in
the immediate possession of the person detained, but not including any clothing
worn by the person, may be searched pursuant to this subdivision. Upon
surrender or discovery of the item, the person detained may also be requested,
but may not be required, to provide adequate proof of his or her true identity.”

(Revised1 10/11)

60

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
The important things to remember when working for a retail merchant are:

1. 	

That a suspected shoplifter can be detained where there is reasonable cause to
believe that the suspect has unlawfully taken or attempted to take an item from
the store. This is not an arrest, but merely a detention in order to investigate
further the reasonable belief that a theft has occurred or was attempted.

2.

T
	 hat reasonable non-deadly force may be used to carryout the detention where
the suspect resists.

3. 	

That following a request to surrender the item believed taken, you may search
their belongings (limited to shopping bags, handbags, and other items) in the
immediate possession of the suspect, but not a search of clothing or apparel
worn by the suspect.

4.	

That following the detention, and if it is established that shoplifting has occurred
or was attempted, and if criminal charges are to be pursued, the suspect must be
given over to law enforcement authorities. This must occur within a reasonable
period of time following detention.

5.	

Mall security personnel should be very aware of the fact that they protect mall
property and that the individual stores in that mall are privately owned and rent
space from the mall owners. With this in mind, unless the mall owners have a
signed agreement with the stores that the security department in the mall have
the permission to act as individual store security, security personnel may not use
Penal Code Section 490.5 inside individual stores.

(Revised1 10/11)

61

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART M.
AFTER THE ARREST
WHAT SHOULD A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY
OFFICER DO AFTER AN ARREST?
After you arrest someone, you must turn him or her over to the police WITHOUT
DELAY. You should write down the time you (1) made the arrest, and (2) called
the police. If you delay too long in calling the police, you may be guilty of an
illegal detention even though you might have spent the time questioning the
suspect.
WHAT IS REASONABLE DELAY?
Reasonable delays, however, are usually acceptable. For example, if you had to
walk a half-mile to get to the nearest phone or wait at your post for your partner
to relieve you, these would be considered reasonable delays. However, if a
phone is handy and you wait an hour before calling, this could be considered an
unreasonable delay.
WHAT IS THE PEACE OFFICERS RESPONSIBILITY?
The police upon arrival at the scene will evaluate the elements of the crime,
detention, and arrest. They will then make the determination as to whether they
must take custody of the person from the security guard/proprietary private
security officer. If the elements of the crime that the person was arrested for
have not been legally met, the officer could simply release the person and leave
the scene after giving the security guard/proprietary private security officer an
explanation.
If you have made a legal arrest, the police, by law, must take custody of the
suspect. Custody means “to take charge of.” If the suspect is charged with a
serious offense, the police will probably take him/her down to the station to take
fingerprints and make photo identification. Also, they might not release the
suspect unless bail is posted.
Taking custody of suspects charged with less serious offenses may not involve
going to the police station. The police may choose simply to cite and release the
suspect pending a hearing. This is also considered “taking into custody.” The
police will take down a statement of what happened, so you should take care to
observe as many factual details as possible. The police will also investigate to
collect evidence. You may also be asked to testify at the trial.
(Revised1 10/11)

62

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
RELEASE FROM CUSTODY
If the peace officer decides to release the suspect, Penal Code Section 849 (c)
provides that the peace officer shall include a record of release in the report.
Thereafter, such arrest shall not be deemed an arrest, but detention only (Penal
Code §849.5).
PRIVATE PERSON’S ARREST - MISDEMEANOR
If the suspect is charged with a misdemeanor (such as trespassing, petty theft, or
disturbing the peace), you will be recorded as the person making the arrest. You
cannot arrest a suspect for a misdemeanor unless you actually see a violation
happen.
If you arrest a suspect, you must call the police. When they arrive, turn the
suspect over to them and make your statement.
Other things you may be expected to do if you make a misdemeanor arrest
include:
1. 	Meeting with the district attorney (usually the next day) to discuss the case
and give a sworn statement regarding what happened.
2. 	Attending the suspect’s hearing.
3. Testifying at the suspect’s trial.

(Revised1 10/11)

63

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO. 13
NOW, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 47 HOW SOON MUST YOU TURN A SUSPECT OVER TO THE PEACE OFFICER
AFTER AN ARREST?
A. 	With out delay.
B. 	At any time.
C. 	After reporting to your supervisor.
Q. 48 IT WOULD BE LAWFUL IF YOU HELD A SUSPECT FOR TWO HOURS SO
YOUR SUPERVISOR COULD QUESTION HIM/HER BEFORE YOU CALLED
THE POLICE.
A. 	True
B. 	False
Q. 49 IF YOU HAVE MADE A LAWFUL ARREST, THE LOCAL PEACE OFFICER:
A. 	Must take custody of the suspect only if the crime is a felony.
B. 	Must take custody of the suspect only if the crime is a misdemeanor.
C. 	Must take custody of the suspect regardless of whether the crime is a
misdemeanor or a felony.
D. 	Can refuse to take custody of the suspect.
Q. 50 IF THE CRIME COMMITTED IS A FELONY, WHO WILL MAKE THE ARREST?
A. 	A proprietary private security guard/proprietary private security officer.
B. 	The police.
C. 	Either A or B.
Q. 51 WHAT WILL PROBABLY BE REQUIRED OF YOU AFTER MAKING AN
ARREST?
A. 	Meeting with the district attorney.
B. 	Attending the suspect’s hearing.
C. 	Testifying at the suspect’s trial.
D. 	All of the above.

(Revised1 10/11)

64

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
PART N.
TERRORISM
WHAT IS TERRORISM?
Terrorism is the use of force or violence against persons or property in violation
of the criminal laws of the Unites States for purposes of intimidation, coercion, or
ransom. Terrorists often use threats to create fear among the public, to try to
convince citizens that their government is powerless in preventing terrorism, and
to get immediate publicity for their causes.
TYPES OF TERRORISM
All acts of terrorism are crimes. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
categorizes terrorism in the United States as one of two types - domestic
terrorism or international terrorism.
Domestic Terrorism involves groups or individuals whose terrorist activities are
directed at elements of our government or population without foreign direction.
International Terrorism involves groups or individuals whose terrorist activities
are foreign based and/or directed by countries or groups outside the United
States or whose activities transcend national boundaries.
NATURE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF TERRORISM
Terrorists look for visible targets where they can avoid detection before or after
an attack such as international airports, large cities, major international events,
resorts, and high-profile landmarks. Terrorist actions are well planned and are
usually executed without any deviation to their plan. It is also theatrical, creating
specific reactions from the audience (population). The terrorist will always stage
and even rehearse their plan at least three times before perpetrating their actual
attack. Terrorism is directed against governments, businesses, communities,
and individuals. It may be perpetrated for the retaliation of perceived injustices to
cause confrontation between parties; improve a bargaining position; or to
demonstrate strength, commitment, and resolve.
Prior to a number of terrorist attacks, the perpetrators have been observed by
security personnel and even recorded on surveillance cameras. However, since
terrorists didn't enter the facility or building, in each case security chose to ignore
(Revised1 10/11)

65

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
them. Some terrorists have been observed taking photographs and making
sketches of the site, yet security personnel hadn't felt it important to stop or
question them. Some terrorist devices such as vehicles containing explosive
devices had even been cited for parking in a "No Parking Zone" yet they had not
investigated or determined its ownership. Remember, a terrorist will not usually
attack unless they believe that their operation will be 100% successful.
Terrorists want media coverage to ensure that many people know about their
activities. Some will even telephone the media just prior to, or even from their
target, after they have taken control. That is why they select high-visibility targets
and attempt to do maximum damage. They want a "High Body Count."
Terrorists hope that attention will increase the public's fear, cause a planned
government reaction, or attract sympathy to their cause.
While you cannot prevent deranged individuals or fanatics from plotting against
their targets, the security guard/proprietary private security officer can minimize
the terrorists' efforts with solid preparation and by just doing the job they have
been paid to do. Whether a threat or an actual attack, it is the security
guard/proprietary private security officer who is on the front line. They are
usually the first to arrive at the scene; to size up (observe) the situation; the first
to request (report) the necessary emergency response; the first to take control of
the situation; the first to administer first aid until the emergency agencies arrive;
and the first to advise the responding agencies of the specific details of the
situation.
COUNTER TERRORIST TECHNIQUES OF PHYSICAL SECURITY
¾

Deter - Deterring terrorists activity by the hardening of the target, so that the
terrorist does not have a 100% chance of success. They include the following:
checking identifications, packages, and vehicles before they enter a secured
area, making patrols or routes of travel unpredictable, and maintaining
confidentiality.

¾

Delay - The use of barriers, locks, a response force and the controlling of
vehicular access.

¾

Deny - Deny the terrorists the use of widespread panic and media leverage,
which they attempt to exploit.

¾

Detect - Detection of terrorist activity can be accomplished through the analysis
of threat intelligence. It can also occur by conducting entry searches, using
detection equipment (x-ray, metal explosive), and closed circuit television.

(Revised1 10/11)

66

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO. 14
Now, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:
Q. 	52 Terrorism is a use of force or violence against persons or property for the
purpose of intimidation or coercion.
A. True
B. False
Q. 53 All acts of terrorism are crimes?
A. True
B. False
Q. 54 What are the two types of terrorism?
A.
B.
C.
D.

Chemical and Biological terrorism
Computer and Sabotage
Coercion and Fear
Domestic and International

Q. 55 What are the characteristics of a terrorist?
A.
B.
C.
D.

They will have a specific objective in mind.
They will always conduct a surveillance of the target.
They will rehearse their operation.
All of the above.

Q. 56 A terrorist almost always acts with a specific objective in mind.
A. True
B. False
Q. 57 What are the four counter terrorist techniques of physical security?
A.
B.
C.
D.

Security, weapons, deadly force and threat intelligence.
Deter, delay, deny and detect.
Deadly force, minimum force, de-escalation of force and entry searches.
None of the above.

(Revised1 10/11)

67

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Q. 	58 Terrorist actions are well planned and are usually executed without any
deviation to their plan.
A. True
B. False
Q. 	59 Terrorism is directed against governments, businesses, communities, and
individuals.
A. True
B. False

PART O.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT OF A SECURITY GUARD/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE
SECURITY OFFICER
The ability of the security guard/proprietary private security officers to fulfill their duties
is dependent upon securing and maintaining public respect and approval, which
includes obtaining the public's willingness to cooperate in the task of preventing crime.
The extent to which the community's respect and trust can be secured is diminished
when a security guard/proprietary private security officer acts in an unprofessional or
unlawful manner. The personal conduct of a security guard/proprietary private security
officer is always under a microscope. You must be constantly mindful of your
obligations to serve your employer efficiently and effectively. The degree to which the
community will cooperate with you is dependent upon its respect for, and confidence in
you.
REMEMBER
The general public sometimes thinks of security guard/proprietary private security
officers as police officers, due to the fact that their uniforms are not readily identifiable
from a distance. As such, the security guard/proprietary private security officer should
maintain his/her appearance and demeanor to the highest level.

(Revised1 10/11)

68

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAM REVIEW NO. 15
Now, on another sheet of paper, answer the following questions:

Q. 	60 Appearance and cleanliness are not as important as showing up on time for
work.
A. True
B. False
Q. 61 The general public judges a security guard/proprietary private security officer by:
A.
B.
C.
D.

Appearance
Speech
Attitude
All of the above

Q. 	62 Security guard/proprietary private security officers are peace officers while on
duty.
A. True
B. False
Q. 63 Accepting gratuity is acceptable at certain times.
A. True
B. False
Q. 	64 The ability of a private security company and its security officers to fulfill their
duties is dependent upon securing and maintaining public respect and approval.
A. True
B. False

(Revised1 10/11)

69

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________

THIS IS THE END OF THE STUDY MANUAL
1. 	
2. 	
3. 	
4.	

Look over the entire study manual one more time. Take note of the major
sections, Part A through O.
Double-check your answers to the CHECKUP QUESTIONS.
Check your answers with the Answers to the Study Questions beginning on the
next page.
Begin the final examination, marking your answers on the answer sheet
provided.

PART P.

ANSWERS TO STUDY QUESTIONS
Part A:

Part B:

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SECURITY GUARD
/PROPRIETARY PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICER
Exam Review #1:

1. B

2. B

Exam Review #2:

5. B

6. B

7. B

8. B

OBSERVATION AND REPORT WRITING
Exam Review #4:

9. C

10. A. (C)

B. (C)

11. Who... What... Where... When.... How.... and
Names of Witnesses
Part D:

4. D

RELATIONS WITH THE LOCAL POLICE
Exam Review #3:

Part C:

3. C

AUTHORITY TO QUESTION
Exam Review #5:

12. B

13. A

(Revised1 10/11)

70

14. A

C. (F)

D. (F)

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Part E:

INSPECTIONS
Exam Review #6:

Part F:

18. A

19. B

22. D
26. B

23. D

27. A
31. A 	
35. A

24. B

25. A

28. A
32. B

29. B
33. A

30. A
34. B

37. A

38. B

39. A

41. A

42. A

43. D

MAKING AN ARREST
Exam Review #11: 40. D

Part K:

21. A

PRIVATE PERSON’S ARREST
Exam Review #10: 36. B

Part J:

20. B

ARRESTABLE OFFENSES
Exam Review #9:

Part I:

17. A

FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING AN ARREST
Exam Review #8:

Part H: 	

16. B

LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES (Liabilities)
Exam Review #7:

Part G:

15. D

SEARCHING THE SUSPECT
Exam Review #12: 44. A

45. B

46. A

Part L:

SEARCHING A SUSPECT UNDER THE MERCHANT'S PRIVILEGE
RULE (No Exam Review Questions)

Part M:	

AFTER THE ARREST
Exam Review #13: 47. A
51. D

48. B

(Revised1 10/11)

71

49. C

50. C

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
Part N: 	

TERRORISM
Exam Review #14 52. A
56. A 	

Part O: 	

53. A
57. B

54. D
58. A

55. D
59. A

62. B

63. B

ETHICS AND PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Exam Review #15 60. B
64. A

61. D

PART Q.
FINAL EXAMINATION
DIRECTIONS: Write your answers on the ANSWER SHEET provided.
DO NOT MARK ON THIS TEST
1. 	The security guard/proprietary private security officer’s role BEFORE a violation has
been committed is to:
a. 	Watch and wait.
b. 	Prevention.
c. 	Apprehend and detain.
d. 	Observe and report.
2. 	What is the security guard/proprietary private security officer’s role AFTER a
violation has been committed?
a. 	Watch and wait.
b. 	Search and seizure.
c. 	Observe and report.
d. 	Apprehend and detain.
3. Acting in such a way as to make someone think that you are a peace officer is:
a. 	Illegal and should never be done.
b. 	Permissible under special circumstances.
c. 	Perfectly acceptable.
d. Dangerous.
(Revised1 10/11)

72

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
4. You are patrolling a company parking lot and see two people trespassing near a car
on the lot. You should first:
a. 	Arrest them for trespassing.
b. 	Prevent them from leaving and call the police.
c. 	Politely ask what they are doing.
d. 	Ignore them.
5. 	Security officers have the same power to arrest as:
a. 	Peace officers.
b. 	Private persons (citizens).
6. 	Who can make a felony arrest?
a. 	A peace officer.
b. 	A security guard/proprietary private security officer.
c. 	Other private persons.
d. 	Any of the above.
7. 	 If a security guard/proprietary private security officer uses too much force to make
an arrest, he/she may be sued and/or have criminal charges filed against them.
a. 	True
b. 	False
8. 	When arresting a suspect for suspicion of burglary, you should say:
a. 	“I am making an arrest.”
b. 	“You are under arrest for suspicion of burglary.”
c. 	Both a and b.
9. 	When you are not sure whether to detain or arrest, you should:
a. 	Observe and report and not detain or arrest.
b. 	Detain the suspect until the police get there.
c. 	Search the suspect to find evidence to arrest him/her.
d. 	Arrest the suspect for a misdemeanor.

(Revised1 10/11)

73

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
10. If the suspect looks bigger and stronger, would that be a good reason for a security
guard/proprietary private security officer not to make an arrest by himself/herself?
a. Yes
b. No
11. 	Can you search people before arresting them?
a. Yes
b. No
12. You are working as a security guard/proprietary private security officer at a factory.
The owner thinks that some employees are stealing tools. The owner asks you to
search their cars on the parking lot. Are you legally allowed to search their cars?
a. Yes
b. No
13. Are you allowed to reach in through an open car window to take out tools that may
have been stolen?
a. Yes
b. No
14. 	When you make an arrest, you should call the police:
a. After everyone has left the area.
b. Without delay or as soon as possible.
15. 	As a security guard/proprietary private security officer, are your duties the same as
a peace officer’s?
a. Yes
b. No
16. 	In our legal system, innocence or guilt is decided only by a court.
a. Yes
b. No

(Revised1 10/11)

74

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
17. Are you, or any private person, legally required to arrest a suspect once you have
seen them commit a crime?
a. Yes
b. No
18. 	Can you search a person to try to find enough evidence to arrest him/her?
a. Yes
b. No
19. 	What police procedure is followed when a suspect is taken into custody?
a.
b.
c.
d.

They take the suspect to the station and book him/her.
They write a citation on the spot and then let the suspect go.
They submit reports to the district attorney for handling.
Any of the above depending on the offense.

20. 	If you make a legal citizen’s arrest, are the police required by law to take custody of
the suspect?
a. Yes
b. No
21. 	A FELONY crime is generally considered to be:
a.
b.
c.
d.

A misdemeanor.
A major crime.
An infraction.
A mistake.

22. 	A MISDEMEANOR crime is generally considered to be:
a.
b.
c.
d.

A felony.
A minor crime.
An infraction.
A mistake.

(Revised1 10/11)

75

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
23. 	As a security guard/proprietary private security officer, you are meeting a primary
responsibility when you:
a. 	Observe safety hazards.
b. 	Observe security violations.
c. 	Report safety hazards and security violations.
d. 	Do all of the above.
24. A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s authority to question people on
private property owned by his employer is:
a. 	Greater than that of private parties.
b. 	No more than any private person.
c. 	The same as a peace officer.
25. The two conditions that must exist before a felony arrest can be made are: 1) that a
felony crime must have been committed; and 2) you must have reason to believe
the suspect actually committed the felony crime.
a. 	Yes
b. 	No
26. 	You witness a woman setting fire to a building. The offense she may have
committed is:
a. 	Arson.
b. 	Burglary.
c. 	Theft.
d. 	Disturbing the peace.

27. A man in a bar is making obscene remarks and trying to start fights. 	The security
guard/proprietary private security officer on duty asks the man to leave, but he
refuses. The offense he may have committed is:
a. 	Arson.
b. 	Burglary.
c. 	Theft.
d. 	Disturbing the peace and trespassing.

28. A person breaks into a drug store late at night and takes several bottles of pills.
(Revised1 10/11)

76

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
What offense may have been committed?
a.
b.
c.
d.

Arson.
Burglary.
Theft.
Robbery.

29. An employee’s husband waits in the parking lot by her car. When she arrives he hits
her. What offense may have been committed?
a.
b.
c.
d.

Battery.
Verbal assault.
Theft.
Robbery.

30. Is a person with only a security guard registration allowed to carry a deadly
weapon?
a. Yes
b. No
31. 	When searching a suspect, you may search for the following:
a. 	Weapons only, when you have reasonable grounds to believe the suspect has
a weapon.
b. Contraband (narcotics).
c. Personal property and identification.
d. Anything that is in his or her pockets.
32. A woman tells you, “The suspect tried to kill the bus driver with a metal pipe.” 	This
statement is:
a. A fact.
b. A conclusion.
33. 	A person who has been arrested for robbery should be referred to as:
a.
b.
c.
d.

The criminal.
The suspect.
The robber.
All of the above.

(Revised1 10/11)

77

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
34. You should not arrest a person for a misdemeanor unless that person has
committed the offense in your presence.
a. True
b. False
35. Your wrongful acts as a security guard/proprietary private security officer may result
in a liability lawsuit to include which of the following parties?
a.
b.
c.
d.

You, the security guard/proprietary private security officer.
Your employer.
Other people involved.
All of the above.

36. Terrorism is a use of force or violence against persons or property for the purpose
of intimidation or coercion.
a. True
b. False
37. Are all acts of terrorism crimes?
a. True
b. False
38. What are the four counter terrorist techniques of physical security?
a.
b.
c.
d.

Security, weapons, deadly force and threat intelligence.
Deter, delay, deny and detect.
Deadly force, minimum force, de-escalation of force and entry searches.
None of the above.

39. What are the two types of terrorism?
a.
b.
c.
d.

Chemical and Biological terrorism.
Computer and Sabotage.
Coercion and Fear.
Domestic and International.

(Revised1 10/11)

78

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
40. 	 What are the characteristics of a terrorist?
a.
b.
c.
d.

They will have a specific objective in mind.
They will always conduct a surveillance of the target.
They will rehearse their operation.
All of the above.

41. 	

Appearance and cleanliness are not as important as showing up on time for
work.
a. True
b. False

42. 	

The general public judges a security guard/proprietary private security officer by:
a.
b.
c.
d.

43. 	

Appearance.
Speech.
Attitude.
All of the above.

A security guard/proprietary private security officer’s ability to fulfill their duties is
dependent upon securing and maintaining public respect and approval.
a. True
b. False

44. 	

Accepting gratuity is acceptable at certain times.
a. True
b. False
STOP!
THIS IS THE END OF THE TEST

Please double-check your answers. Then turn your test and materials in to the person
administering the exam.

(Revised1 10/11)

79

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
POWER TO ARREST FINAL EXAMINATION
ANSWER SHEET
Date: ___________
Applicant: ______________________

Instructor: _______________________

PLEASE MARK ALL OF YOUR ANSWERS WITH AN X.
1.

A

B

C

D

16.

A

B

31.

A B C

2.

A

B

C

D

17.

A

B

32.

A

B

3.

A

B

C

D

18.

A

B

33.

A

B

4.

A

B

C

D

19.

A

B

34.

A

B

5.

A

B

20.

A

B

35.

A

B

6.

A

B

21.

A

B

C

D

36.

A

B

7.

A

B

22.

A

B

C

D

37.

A

B

8.

A

B

C

23.

A

B

C

D

38.

A

9.

A

B

C

24.

A

B

C

39.

10.

A

B

25.

A

B

11.

A

B

26.

A

B

C

12.

A

B

27.

A

B

13.

A

B

28.

A

14.

A

B

29.

15.

A

B

30.

C

D

D

C

D

C

D

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

40.

A

B

C

D

D

41.

A B

C

D

42.

A B

B

C

D

43.

A B

A

B

C

D

44.

A B

A

B

C

D

C D

POWER TO ARREST RECORD
This is to certify that the above applicant has been instructed in the Power to Arrest and that he has
passed with a score of 100%. I understand that this answer sheet must be kept on file for two years and
that the material will be reviewed during each audit performed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative
Services. This also certifies that this applicant has been given a copy of “The Responsibilities of the
Security guard/proprietary private security officer” as required by the Bureau of Security and Investigative
Services.

_____________________
Instructor’s Signature

_____________________
Applicant’s Signature

(Revised1 10/11)

80

_____________________
Applicant’s Name (Printed)

POWER TO ARREST TRAINING MANUAL
______________________________________________________________________________
FINAL EXAMINATION

INSTRUCTOR’S ANSWER KEY

C

D

C

D

C

D

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

40.

A

B

C

D

D

41.

A

B

C

D

42.

A

B

C

D

B

C

D

43.

A

B

A

B

C

D

44.

A

B

A

B

1.

A

B

C

D

16.

A

B

31.

A

B

2.

A

B

C

D

17.

A

B

32.

A

B

3.

A

B

C

D

18.

A

B

33.

A

B

4.

A

B

C

D

19.

A

B

34.

A

B

5.

A

B

20.

A

B

35.

A

B

6.

A

B

21.

A

B

C

D

36.

A

B

7.

A

B

22.

A

B

C

D

37.

A

B

8.

A

B

C

23.

A

B

C

D

38.

A

9.

A

B

C

24.

A

B

C

39.

10.

A

B

25.

A

B

11.

A

B

26.

A

B

C

12.

A

B

27.

A

B

13.

A

B

28.

A

14.

A

B

29.

15.

A

B

30.

C

D

D

C

(Revised1 10/11)

81

D