When can a PPO demand that his/her guard make an arrest?

The correct answer is that a PPO (Private Patrol Operator) can never demand that their guard make an arrest. Under California law, the authority to make an arrest is strictly limited and is generally reserved for peace officers. Security guards in California do not have the same legal arrest powers as law enforcement officers.

While there are specific scenarios where a private security guard may detain an individual, such as in cases of citizen's arrest for certain misdemeanors committed in their presence, they do not have the authority to act in the capacity of law enforcement. Additionally, private security personnel must adhere to the regulations laid out in the California Business and Professions Code, which does not grant them arrest powers merely upon the request of a PPO.

If a guard encounters immediate danger, it's important for them to focus on de-escalation and contacting the appropriate authorities rather than making an arrest. Similarly, while specific training may relate to handling situations involving potential criminal activity, it does not expand their legal authority to make arrests. Thus, the fundamental understanding of a security guard's role in California is that arresting individuals is not part of their responsibilities, reinforcing that the PPO cannot demand such actions.