Security Officers and Their Legal Authority

It is important for the general public to acknowledge that a security officer is not a police officer. Security officers do not have the training or legal authority of a police officer. Security officers only possess the authority granted to them by the owners of the property on which they are posted and which is dictated by law. Such authority begins and exists only while the officer is on his or her assigned shift and ends when the security officer leaves the property.

Police officers are trained and empowered to apprehend those who break the law. Security officers have the primary duty of preventing violations of the law and workrules on the client’s property. In many cases their most important job is to detect dangerous conditions such as fire, potential threats, leaking water, etc. When a security officer prevents violations of a law or work rules, or spots a dangerous condition and takes corrective action, he/she has done the job well.

In addition, it is important for security personnel to fully understand their extent of authority. Security officers cannot sign arrest warrants, search and seizure warrants, or any other official document. Security officers will not accept service of a subpoena for a client. Security officers do have the power to make a citizen’s arrest.

In any instance, when the police or the fire department is involved, a member of management must be notified immediately. You may contact your local office or Brownstone’s 24 hour call center at 310-297-3605. In cases where an incident draws the attention of the news media, security officers are not to release any information. Public statements will be made by the management of the client companyand this agency only.

It is the policy of Brownstone Security to NEVER AUTHORIZE THE CARRYING OR USE OF FIREARMS OR ANY OTHER WEAPONS necessitating a permit by anyone that does not have a current license issued by the appropriate state. If an employee possesses the proper state license to carry a weapon, an additional authorization by Brownstone will be required. All employees with a state license to carry aweapon will be processed for weapon authorization prior to such approval. Brownstone Security does not authorize any person to carry any weapon off duty.

Your safety and the safety of our customers is our priority. If you have any questions regarding your duties and responsibilities, contact your local office.