A licensed security guard is deployed to a retail store and observes a patron actively attempting to shoplift high-value electronics. The patron becomes verbally abusive when confronted and aggressively shoves the guard, attempting to flee. Based on the Use of Force Continuum, what would be the most appropriate next step for the security guard to consider, given their lawful authority?

Question: A licensed security guard is deployed to a retail store and observes a patron actively attempting to shoplift high-value electronics. The patron becomes verbally abusive when confronted and aggressively shoves the guard, attempting to flee. Based on the Use of Force Continuum, what would be the most appropriate next step for the security guard to consider, given their lawful authority?

Answer options:

• Use a tactical take-down to incapacitate the individual and prevent escape, then handcuff them immediately.
• Maintain verbal commands and attempt to de-escalate, while creating distance and calling for police assistance. ✅ Apply soft empty hand techniques to control the individual and prevent further aggression or escape, adhering to proportionality.
• Call the police and observe the individual's movements from a safe distance without further intervention.

Correct answer: Apply soft empty hand techniques to control the individual and prevent further aggression or escape, adhering to proportionality.

Explanation: Given the patron's active aggression (shoving) and attempt to flee, soft empty hand techniques would be a proportional response to control the individual and prevent escape, as per the principles of the Use of Force Continuum. While de-escalation is always preferred, active aggression necessitates a more direct response, still aiming for the lowest level of force necessary. Security guards operate under the authority of a private citizen's arrest (Section 494 of the Criminal Code of Canada) and common law powers to protect property, but force must remain reasonable and necessary.