Which of the following statements is true regarding a security guard's authority?

A security guard acts as an agent of the property they are tasked with protecting. This means they are hired to oversee and enforce rules and regulations within a specific premises, ensuring the safety of the property and its occupants. Their role is typically confined to monitoring, preventing unauthorized access, and responding to incidents within their jurisdiction. This authority is grounded in the concept of private security, meaning they operate under the direction of the property owner or management, granting them the ability to act on behalf of that property.

The powers of a security guard are limited compared to those of law enforcement officers. For example, they do not have the authority to detain someone indefinitely, nor can they search vehicles without consent unless specific conditions are met (like the presence of a lawful cause). Additionally, security guards cannot arrest individuals for any reason; their authority generally extends to detaining a suspect only in specific situations, often until law enforcement arrives. Thus, the role of a security guard is defined by the specific responsibilities given to them by the property owner, keeping in mind legal limitations.