When is it appropriate for a security guard to detain a suspect?

Detaining a suspect is a critical decision that must be made based on clear, justifiable circumstances. One of the most appropriate situations for a security guard to detain someone is when they have witnessed a crime taking place. This firsthand observation provides the guard with the necessary context and supporting evidence to justify detaining the individual, assuming it is safe to do so. This not only aligns with the guard's responsibilities of maintaining safety and order but also respects the legal framework surrounding citizen's arrest and the use of reasonable force.

Furthermore, taking action based on direct observation ensures that the security guard's response is grounded in reality, as opposed to potentially unreliable sources or personal feelings of threat. A reliance on personal feelings or external tips does not provide a strong enough legal or ethical basis for a detention, making firsthand witnessing of a crime a critical factor in this decision-making process.