Texas Security Level II Certification Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Exam Prep

For a security officer to legally arrest someone for a felony, the crime must be committed in the presence or view of the officer. This principle is rooted in the legal concept that an officer needs firsthand knowledge of a crime taking place to justify an immediate arrest. When a security officer witnesses a felony occurring, they can take action based on their direct observation, allowing them to arrest the individual without needing a warrant.

In contrast, while it may seem reasonable to consider the crime occurring anywhere in the vicinity, it lacks the requirement of direct observation necessary for immediate action. Similarly, a public space does not inherently permit an arrest if the officer did not witness the offense. Lastly, if the crime happens outside the officer's jurisdiction, they generally would not have the authority to make an arrest unless specific conditions apply, such as if the officer is acting under mutual aid agreements or particular state laws that grant them that power.