Can Security Guards Arrest You?
It’s a common question:
Can a security guard actually arrest you?
You might see it happen in stores or on private property—but what’s legal, and what’s not?
Can Security Guards Arrest You?
Yes—security guards can arrest you.
But only under very specific conditions.
They do not have special police powers.
Their authority comes from the same law that applies to any private citizen:
👉 https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-46/section-494.html
This is called a citizen’s arrest.
What Is a Citizen’s Arrest?
A citizen’s arrest allows a person—including a security guard—to detain someone in limited situations.
Under Canadian law, this can happen if:
The person is caught committing a crime, or
The arrest is made within a reasonable time after the offence, and
It relates to property the guard is responsible for
What Does “Reasonable Grounds” Mean?
This is one of the most important parts.
A security guard must have a valid reason based on facts, not just a guess.
Examples of reasonable grounds:
Seeing someone conceal items and leave a store without paying
Witnessing vandalism or theft
Observing someone refuse to leave private property after being told
Not reasonable grounds:
Acting on suspicion alone
Profiling or assumptions
Detaining someone without evidence
Can Security Guards Arrest People in Stores?
Yes—this is where arrests most often happen.
Example: Shoplifting
A loss prevention officer sees someone:
Take an item
Hide it
Leave without paying
The guard can:
Stop the person
Identify themselves
Detain them until police arrive
What Happens After a Security Guard Arrests You?
Security guards must follow strict steps.
They must:
Call police right away
Use only necessary force
Keep the person safe
Transfer custody to police as soon as possible
They cannot:
Hold someone for long periods
Punish or question someone like police
Can Security Guards Use Force During an Arrest?
Yes—but only if necessary.
The force used must be:
Reasonable
Proportional
A last resort
Example:
Restraining someone who tries to run away or becomes aggressive
Excessive force can lead to:
Criminal charges
Civil lawsuits
Loss of license
Can Security Guards Arrest You for Trespassing?
Yes.
On private property, security guards can act on behalf of the owner.
If someone:
Refuses to leave
Returns after being banned
They may be arrested under trespassing laws.
What Security Guards Cannot Do
Security guards have limits.
They cannot:
Arrest without legal grounds
Use unnecessary force
Act like police officers
Detain someone indefinitely
Their role is to hold a situation until police arrive, not replace law enforcement.
Common Misconceptions
“Security guards can arrest anyone.”
No—there must be legal grounds.
“Security guards have police powers.”
No—their authority is limited.
“If a guard stops you, you must comply.”
You should cooperate, but the guard must still be acting lawfully.
Real-World Example
A person is caught stealing from a retail store.
A security guard:
Witnesses the theft
Stops the individual outside the store
Identifies themselves
Detains the person safely
Calls police
Police arrive and take over.
Why This Matters
Understanding arrest powers helps:
The public know their rights
Businesses reduce liability
Security teams act within the law
Improper arrests can lead to serious consequences for everyone involved.
Learn More About Professional Security Services
If you’re evaluating security for your property, it’s important to work with trained professionals who understand legal limits.
Explore our services here:
SECURITY GUARDS
Good security is not about force—it’s about doing things the right way, every time.
Final Answer
Yes, security guards can arrest you—but only under specific legal conditions.
Their authority comes from citizen’s arrest laws, and it must be used carefully, lawfully, and responsibly.