Security Officers and Security Assistants are not peace officers. Security personnel do not perform the same duties, receive the same training, or have the same powers under the California Penal Code as peace officers.
Security Officers and Security Assistants are public officers,(as defined in 831.4 PC), employed by the Sheriff of a County, whose primary duty is the security of a location or facility with respect to the patrons, employees, and properties of the employing County as directed by the Sheriff.
All security personnel should be reminded that the protection of people and property are their primary duties. Whereas, peace officers protect people, property, and enforce laws.
If a law is violated, peace officers are required to pursue and apprehend the responsible person(s). Security personnel's primary role is that of an observer and reporter. Under certain circumstances, it may become necessary for a Security Officer to pursue a violator only in tandem with a sworn Department member.
Refer to CSDM, 4-03/025.10 - Foot Pursuit Policy For Security Personnel.
Record all pertinent information and provide it to the proper law enforcement agency.
A Security Officer is responsible to observe, deter, pursue, and detain persons who have committed a crime on County property. However, they shall never independently place a person under arrest, but must detain the person for further investigation by peace officer personnel. The penal code defines "arrest" as the taking of a person(s) into custody, in a case and in the manner authorized by law. An arrest may be made by a peace officer or by a private person (834 PC).