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BC Security Guard Licence Exam Prep · Question

What is the primary difference in powers between a security guard and a police officer in British Columbia?

Security guards generally possess the same powers of arrest as a citizen unless explicitly granted additional powers by law, whereas police officers have extens

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Question: What is the primary difference in powers between a security guard and a police officer in British Columbia?

Answer options:

  • Security guards can detain suspects longer than police officers. ✅ Police officers have powers granted by statute (e.g., Criminal Code), whereas security guards' powers are primarily those of an ordinary citizen, supplemented by contract and specific statutes like the Trespass to Property Act.
  • Security guards are authorized to use higher levels of force than police officers.
  • Police officers require consent for searches, while security guards do not.

Correct answer: Police officers have powers granted by statute (e.g., Criminal Code), whereas security guards' powers are primarily those of an ordinary citizen, supplemented by contract and specific statutes like the Trespass to Property Act.

Explanation: Security guards generally possess the same powers of arrest as a citizen unless explicitly granted additional powers by law, whereas police officers have extensive statutory powers, such as those under the Criminal Code.

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