Ontario Security Guard Test Legal Authorities of Security Guards

Question 1

Under Canadian law, what is the primary legal authority that allows a security guard to arrest someone?

Accepted Answer

Section 494 of the Criminal Code (citizen's arrest)

Answer

The Police Services Act

Answer

The Private Security and Investigative Services Act

Answer

The Trespass to Property Act

Question 2

Under section 494 of the Criminal Code, when can a security guard make an arrest?

Accepted Answer

When they find someone committing a criminal offence

Answer

Whenever they suspect someone might commit a crime

Answer

When a crime was committed yesterday by a known person

Answer

Whenever they are instructed by their employer

Question 3

What must a security guard do after making a citizen's arrest under section 494?

Accepted Answer

Deliver the person to a peace officer as soon as possible

Answer

Detain the person for up to 24 hours for questioning

Answer

Transport the person to jail

Answer

Issue the person a fine

Question 4

What is the legal consequence for a security guard who uses excessive force during an arrest?

Accepted Answer

They may face criminal charges for assault

Answer

No consequence if acting in good faith

Answer

They only face disciplinary action from their employer

Answer

They lose their licence but face no criminal charges

Question 5

Under the Trespass to Property Act (Ontario), what authority does a security guard have?

Accepted Answer

The authority to ask a trespasser to leave and use reasonable force to remove them if they refuse

Answer

The power to arrest trespassers for criminal offences

Answer

The power to search trespassers' belongings

Answer

No authority under this Act

Question 6

Can a security guard conduct a search of a person's belongings without consent?

Accepted Answer

No, security guards generally have no right to search without consent

Answer

Yes, at any time while on duty

Answer

Yes, but only in shopping malls

Answer

Yes, if they suspect theft