A security guard has lawfully arrested an individual for theft. The individual begins to resist physically, attempting to flee. What guidance does Section 27 of the Criminal Code provide regarding the use of force in this situation?

Question: A security guard has lawfully arrested an individual for theft. The individual begins to resist physically, attempting to flee. What guidance does Section 27 of the Criminal Code provide regarding the use of force in this situation?

Answer options:

• It permits the security guard to use any force necessary to prevent escape, up to and including lethal force. ✅ It allows the security guard to use as much force as is reasonably necessary to prevent the escape of a person lawfully arrested.
• It mandates that the security guard must release the individual if resistance is met, to avoid injury.
• It applies only to peace officers and provides no guidance for security guards.

Correct answer: It allows the security guard to use as much force as is reasonably necessary to prevent the escape of a person lawfully arrested.

Explanation: Section 27 of the Criminal Code states that everyone is justified in using as much force as is reasonably necessary to prevent the escape of a person whom he or she has arrested, whether lawfully or unlawfully, provided that he or she believes on reasonable grounds that the person arrested is escaping or attempting to escape.