What should a security guard do if they witness a crime?

A security guard witnessing a crime has a responsibility to act in a specific manner that ensures safety and follows legal procedures. Notifying law enforcement and providing details is the appropriate action because it allows trained professionals to handle the situation effectively. Security guards are often the first on the scene and can provide critical information about what they observed, which can assist law enforcement in their response, investigation, and apprehension of suspects.

Engaging suspects directly carries significant risks and could escalate the situation, potentially putting the guard and others in danger. Leaving the scene would not address the crime or assist victims and could hinder the law enforcement response. Ignoring the incident undermines the very purpose of a security guard, which is to protect and maintain safety in the environment they are responsible for. Therefore, reporting the incident is not only the correct course of action but also a part of the expected duties of a security guard.