New Brunswick Security Guard License Practice Exam

If a security guard witnesses a crime, what should they do?

1. Ignore it and continue their duties

2. Report it to law enforcement and document the incident

3. Confront the criminal directly

4. Call their supervisor only

The correct answer is: Report it to law enforcement and document the incident

When a security guard witnesses a crime, reporting it to law enforcement and documenting the incident is the appropriate course of action. This approach ensures that the crime is officially recorded and enables law enforcement to take appropriate actions based on the evidence provided. Documenting the incident includes noting the details such as the time, location, persons involved, and any observations that can aid in an investigation. This documentation is vital for building a case and may be referenced later in legal proceedings. While calling a supervisor can be beneficial for internal protocols, it is essential to prioritize notifying law enforcement, as they have the authority and resources to handle criminal activity. Ignoring the crime or confronting the criminal can increase risk and potential liability for the security guard, as these actions can undermine both personal safety and legal responsibility. Thus, the correct and responsible course of action focuses on alerting law enforcement while keeping a meticulous record of the event.