Mississippi Security Guard Board Practice Exam

Can security guards in Mississippi formally arrest individuals?

1. Yes, with a special training license

2. No, they can only detain until law enforcement arrives

3. Only in emergencies

4. Yes, if they witness a crime

The correct answer is: No, they can only detain until law enforcement arrives

In Mississippi, security guards do not have the same arrest powers as law enforcement officers. They can only detain individuals temporarily until law enforcement authorities arrive to handle the situation. This means that while security guards can intervene to prevent a crime or protect property, their legal authority does not extend to making formal arrests. By detaining someone, they are exercising a limited power that is meant to preserve safety and secure the premises, but they must rely on law enforcement for official arrest procedures. The limitations on the authority of security guards are important for ensuring that individuals' rights are respected and that due process is followed. Allowing security guards to have full arrest powers could lead to potential abuse and misunderstandings of legal rights. Therefore, the framework is designed to ensure that their role is more about prevention and initial response rather than enforcement of the law through arrest.