During a routine patrol, a security guard discovers someone spray-painting graffiti on a building wall. The individual drops the can and attempts to flee when confronted. What is the most appropriate action for the security guard to take, based on use of force principles?

Question: During a routine patrol, a security guard discovers someone spray-painting graffiti on a building wall. The individual drops the can and attempts to flee when confronted. What is the most appropriate action for the security guard to take, based on use of force principles?

Answer options:

• Pursue and physically restrain the individual to prevent escape. ✅ Observe the direction of travel, document, and report to authorities.
• Issue a verbal warning and allow the individual to leave if they continue to flee.
• Use pepper spray to incapacitate the individual before they escape.

Correct answer: Observe the direction of travel, document, and report to authorities.

Explanation: Security guards generally have limited arrest powers and their primary role is observation and reporting, especially for minor offences where there is no immediate threat of serious harm. Pursuing and physically restraining for a property crime like graffiti, absent other factors, could exceed reasonable force and the guard's legal authority, making observation and reporting the safest and most legally sound action.