What is the primary difference between the duties of a security officer and a police officer?

The primary distinction between the duties of a security officer and a police officer lies in their affiliation with different sectors. Security officers are typically employed by private companies or organizations to protect property, individuals, and assets. Their role is focused on preventing loss, maintaining safety, and enforcing the internal policies of the entity they work for.

In contrast, police officers are government employees who have a mandate to uphold the law, maintain public order, and enforce criminal laws. This difference in employer leads to variations in their authority and the scope of their duties. Security officers generally have limited authority and are not granted the same legal powers that police officers possess, such as making arrests or carrying firearms, unless specified by law or company policy.

The other options misrepresent essential aspects of their roles. Security officers do not possess more authority than police officers; in fact, their authority is more limited. Police officers must undergo rigorous training and meet certain qualifications, directly contrasting the idea that they do not require training. Lastly, security officers are not empowered to enforce laws in the same way police officers are; their enforcement capabilities are usually restricted to company policies and regulations rather than broader legal statutes.