Are security guards permitted to make arrests in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, security guards have the authority to detain individuals under specific circumstances, but their power is limited compared to law enforcement officers. The correct answer highlights that security guards can detain an individual if they have a reasonable suspicion that the individual is committing or has committed a crime, but this detention is meant to be temporary and solely to maintain safety or security until law enforcement arrives. This legal framework is designed to ensure that while security personnel can take necessary actions to protect property and people, they do not have the full powers of arrest like police officers.

The emphasis on detaining until law enforcement arrives reflects the importance of having trained law enforcement take over situations that require formal arrest and processing. This delineation helps maintain proper legal procedures and protects the rights of individuals. This approach is meant to balance the need for immediate response to threats with the rights of individuals under the law.