What should a security officer do if they witness a crime?

When a security officer witnesses a crime, the appropriate action is to immediately report it to law enforcement and preserve evidence. This approach is correct because it prioritizes safety and allows trained professionals to handle the situation. Reporting the crime ensures that law enforcement can respond promptly, which can be critical in mitigating the situation and preventing further criminal activity.

Preserving evidence is also vital, as it helps ensure that vital information can be collected and used in an investigation. This can include securing the scene, avoiding contamination of evidence, and documenting everything accurately, which is crucial for any subsequent legal proceedings.

Confronting a suspect directly can lead to dangerous situations, potentially putting the officer or others at risk. Handling the situation independently undermines the roles and responsibilities established for law enforcement and may hinder an effective resolution of the incident. Ignoring a crime, even if it seems minor, can lead to escalation or the perception that such behavior is acceptable, potentially causing greater issues in the future.