Maine Security Officer Practice Exam

If a security officer witnesses a crime in progress, what should they do?

1. Confront the suspect immediately

2. Ignore it to avoid escalation

3. Report to law enforcement and document observations

4. Wait for backup before taking action

The correct answer is: Report to law enforcement and document observations

When a security officer witnesses a crime in progress, the primary responsibility is to ensure safety and act within legal and organizational protocols. Reporting to law enforcement and documenting observations is the correct course of action because it prioritizes the safety of the officer and others while ensuring that trained professionals handle the situation. By informing law enforcement, the officer ensures that appropriate forces are engaged to respond to the crime effectively. Additionally, documenting observations provides crucial details that can aid in investigations, prosecutions, and future preventive measures. This method aligns with best practices in security operations, where maintaining a clear record of events enhances accountability and support for law enforcement efforts. Confronting the suspect or waiting for backup could escalate the situation unnecessarily and place the officer and others in danger. Ignoring the crime altogether fails to uphold the officer’s duty to promote safety and security within their jurisdiction. Hence, prompt communication with law enforcement and thorough documentation is vital in these scenarios.