In what circumstances should an unarmed security officer detain an individual?

An unarmed security officer should detain an individual primarily when a crime is actively being committed, provided they can do so safely. This aligns with the role and responsibilities of an unarmed security officer, which typically involves the protection of property and individuals while operating within legal boundaries. Detaining someone during a crime allows the officer to prevent further harm or loss and facilitates the involvement of law enforcement if needed. It's important that the officer assesses the situation to ensure their own safety and the safety of others, as using force or executing a detention without reasonable cause or in a reckless manner could lead to liability issues or escalation of the situation.

Detaining someone based solely on a suspicion of suspicious behavior does not meet the necessary legal threshold for action—it requires more concrete evidence of a crime. Similarly, acting solely on a bystander’s request or uniformly detaining anyone witnessing theft fails to consider the nuances of each situation and could lead to unnecessary confrontations, legal complications, or misinterpretation of intentions. Therefore, the responsibility lies in confirming that a crime is occurring and acting on that observation while prioritizing safety.