What should a security guard do if they witness a crime?

When a security guard witnesses a crime, the appropriate action is to report it to law enforcement immediately. This ensures that trained professionals can address the situation and take the necessary legal steps to handle the incident. Prompt reporting is vital for various reasons, including preserving evidence, ensuring the safety of individuals involved, and allowing law enforcement to respond swiftly to prevent further criminal activity.

In contrast, confronting the criminal can put the security guard and others at risk, as they may not have the appropriate training to handle potentially dangerous situations. Ignoring the crime completely is not acceptable, as it could lead to further incidents or harm to others. Discussing the matter with colleagues prior to contacting law enforcement can delay the response and may hinder the proper handling of the crime scene. Thus, the immediate reporting to law enforcement is a critical and professional responsibility that promotes safety and proper legal procedure.