If a security officer makes a 'false arrest', who could be held liable?

When a security officer makes a false arrest, both the officer and the Private Patrol Operator (PPO) can be held liable due to several legal principles that apply in such situations. The concept of vicarious liability comes into play, where an employer or supervising entity (in this case, the PPO) can be held responsible for the actions of its employees, provided those actions occur within the scope of their employment.

In terms of liability, the security officer's actions are directly linked to his training and the policies enforced by the PPO. If the officer was acting under the authority and policies set forth by the PPO at the time of the false arrest, it creates a scenario where the PPO can also be held accountable. This means that if someone is harmed or wrongfully detained due to the officer's actions, both the officer and the PPO can face legal repercussions resulting from that incident.

Understanding this liability structure is essential for anyone involved in security services, as it underscores the importance of proper training, adherence to protocols, and the ramifications of an officer's actions on both individuals and their employers.