Minnesota Protective Agent Practice Test

Under what circumstance can a protective agent make a citizen’s arrest?

1. When they observe reckless driving

2. If they have a warrant issued

3. When they witness a felony or immediate danger to others

4. Only when a police officer is present

The correct answer is: When they witness a felony or immediate danger to others

A protective agent has the authority to make a citizen's arrest primarily when they witness a felony being committed or when there is an immediate danger to others. This principle is based on the idea that a protective agent, as a security professional, has the duty to act when they observe a serious crime or a situation that poses a risk to public safety. This authority is grounded in the necessity to prevent harm or to apprehend individuals who are committing crimes, especially felonies, which are serious offenses. The law recognizes that immediate action may be required in such circumstances, allowing protective agents to intervene and potentially prevent greater harm. In contrast, merely observing reckless driving does not generally rise to the level of a felony or immediate danger that justifies a citizen's arrest. Having a warrant is also a necessary condition for arrests made by law enforcement, but it typically does not apply to citizen's arrests. Additionally, a protective agent does not need the presence of a police officer to make a citizen's arrest; the agent’s own judgment about the seriousness of the situation is what empowers them to act.