Handcuffing and Detention by Private Security.

Standard Operating Handcuff Procedures for Private Security:

1. When / If:
   • Take into account any special circumstances where handcuffing might harm the suspect--These circumstances include a pregnant, obese, ill or intoxicated person.
   • Be mindful if the person is a juvenile or elderly, and if handcuffing is necessary to protect the public, the suspect, or yourself.
   • Handcuffs are temporary restraining device only(not for long term immobilization)
2. How:
   • Attempt to keep the suspect off balance when applying the handcuffs while keeping yourself in a well-balanced, alert stance while handcuffing.
   • When practical, approach a suspect from the side or rear and watch for any unexpected moves.
   • Always handcuff the subject with his hands behind the back unless the suspect is injured or has a physical disability.
   • It is also important not to pile on top or place the handcuffed suspect face down on the ground to avoid "positional asphyxiation".
   • Never handcuff a suspect to an object, vehicle, or yourself.
   • Additional restraints, such as Hog-ties should not be used by security officers.
3. Searching:
   • A general search should be conducted from the rear of the suspect, to make sure there are no weapons.
   • Have a member of the opposite gender with you at all times if the suspect in custody is of the opposite gender
   • Always limit the search for only weapons.
4. After:
   • Call the Police as soon as is possible.
   • When the suspect is handcuffed, the security officer is responsible to see that they don't trip or fall.
   • Once restrained, the suspect should be kept under constant observation.
   • Immediately double-lock the handcuffs. This prevents: over-tightening and makes picking the locks more difficult.
   • Periodic checks be made of the subject's hands/wrists ensuring the restraint has not been tampered with & to avoid soft tissue or nerve damage
   • A handcuffed suspect should be considered a physical threat, not just a threat that he/she will steal property, but a physical threat to our clients
   • If the suspect says the handcuffs are too tight, immediately check and adjust appropriately.
5. Handover to Police:
   • Before removing the handcuffs make sure law enforcement personnel is present and ready to receive the suspect into custody.
   • The police officer will apply his handcuffs and then he will remove yours and return them to you.

Questions:

• Is this true: Private Security are only allowed to detain a suspect, and turn over to the police. Police then arrest the suspect, and conduct searches(for anything other than weapons)