What is the difference between a security officer and a police officer?

A security officer and a police officer operate under different scopes of authority and responsibilities, which is why the distinction lies in the limited powers and authority of security officers compared to law enforcement officials. Security officers generally focus on protecting property and maintaining order on private premises. Their authority is typically confined to the property they are employed to secure, which means they cannot enforce the law in the same manner a police officer might.

In contrast, police officers are empowered to enforce local, state, and federal laws, which includes the authority to detain and arrest individuals based on probable cause. This significant difference in their roles emphasizes that while both serve to maintain safety and security, the mechanisms through which they operate, as well as the breadth of their powers, greatly differ.

Understanding this distinction is crucial as it highlights the limitations faced by security officers in their roles, ensuring they operate within the boundaries set for them while performing their duties.