New Mexico Security Guard Practice Exam

Are security guards allowed to arrest individuals in New Mexico?

1. Yes, without any special training

2. No, unless they are licensed to do so as law enforcement

3. Yes, if they witness a misdemeanor

4. Only if they have a law degree

The correct answer is: No, unless they are licensed to do so as law enforcement

In New Mexico, security guards are generally not permitted to arrest individuals unless they are specifically licensed as law enforcement officers. This means that while security personnel may have the authority to detain individuals temporarily to prevent a crime from happening or to protect property, they must act within the limits of their training and licensing. The law distinguishes between the roles of security guards and law enforcement officers. Law enforcement officers have undergone extensive training and have the legal authority to make arrests under specific circumstances. In contrast, security guards typically have limited authority and must rely on their employer's policies and the law regarding citizen's arrests, which often requires them to have a reasonable belief that a crime is being committed. This distinction is crucial for security guards to understand, as attempting to arrest someone without the proper authority or training can lead to legal consequences for both the guard and their employer. Therefore, proper licensing as law enforcement is essential for anyone to legally perform arrests in New Mexico.