The Difference Between Security Guards & Cops

Security Guard vs. Cops –

Without prior understanding of the distinctions in jobs, clothing, and responsibilities, it may be difficult to distinguish between security guards and police officers. Here’s a quick rundown of the major distinctions between private security guards and police officers.

Because of their clothes, equipment, and functions, security guards are sometimes mistaken for police officers. Private security guards and public police officers, on the other hand, have a few important differences. Powers are granted to security guards and staff by their designated state.

Security guards and workers have authority granted by state and provincial laws. Through their contract or agreement with the customer for whom they serve, their powers are described as ‘Agent of the Owner’ powers. Because security guards are protecting private property rather than public property, Agent of the Owner Powers provide them the authority to question without a warrant.

Keep Private Property Safe

Security guards are tasked with keeping private property and people safe from criminals, natural disasters, and other emergencies. Police officers, on the other hand, are in charge of enforcing the law in order to protect neighborhoods, cities, and communities. The role of defending private property vs enforcing the law is the major distinction between security guards and police personnel.

Some security guards are also police officers, and in some circumstances, they are required to enforce the law in the absence of on-duty cops, but the circumstances differ by state.

Depending on their line of job and qualifications, security guards may be armed or unarmed. In both cases, special training is required, and qualifications vary based on the jurisdiction responsible for defining ‘Agent of the Owner’ responsibilities. Contact us for more information.