Texas Security Guard License Practice Exam

What legal authority does a security guard have in Texas?

1. To arrest individuals suspected of a crime

2. To detain individuals suspected of committing a crime until law enforcement arrives

3. To search individuals without cause

4. To carry and use firearms at all times

The correct answer is: To detain individuals suspected of committing a crime until law enforcement arrives

The legal authority of a security guard in Texas includes the right to detain individuals who are suspected of committing a crime until law enforcement arrives. This power allows security personnel to act in the interests of ensuring safety and security on the property they are assigned to protect. When detaining an individual, a security guard must have a reasonable belief that the person has committed a crime, and the detention must be performed in a manner that is necessary and not overly forceful. The purpose of this authority is to allow guards to maintain order and prevent further harm while waiting for police to take over the situation. The other options reflect misunderstandings of a security guard's legal powers. Arresting individuals is typically reserved for law enforcement officers who have the authority to carry out arrests based on the laws of the state. Searching individuals without cause infringes on personal rights and is not permitted under Texas law. Additionally, although security guards may carry firearms under specific circumstances, the ability to do so is regulated by law and does not grant them unrestricted use of firearms at all times.