Kentucky Security Guard Practice Exam

Can a security guard in Kentucky perform a citizen's arrest?

1. No, they are not authorized to do so

2. Yes, but only under specific conditions

3. Only with a warrant from law enforcement

4. Yes, at any time

The correct answer is: Yes, but only under specific conditions

In Kentucky, a security guard can indeed perform a citizen's arrest, but this ability is contingent upon specific conditions being met. The law allows for a citizen's arrest under circumstances where a person is committing a crime, especially if the crime is a felony or involves a breach of the peace. For security guards, who are often present in places where authority and responsibility overlap with law enforcement, understanding these conditions is crucial. They must have witnessed the crime occurring or need to act on a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. This means a security guard can't simply detain someone for any reason; there must be a lawful basis for the action taken. Therefore, the option stating that they can perform a citizen's arrest but only under specific conditions aligns well with Kentucky law regarding the authority and responsibility of security personnel. In contrast, being authorized at any time without conditions or needing a warrant are not applicable here. Kentucky law recognizes certain powers but balances them with the necessity for just cause in citizen’s arrests, reflecting the importance of proper conduct and legal authority in such situations.