MD SG Entry Level Training PDF

# MD SG Entry Level Training ## Maryland Security Guard License Requirements (SG-1) * Be 18 years of age or older * Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien * Submit a completed application to the state's security agency * Submit to a background check showing that you don't have a criminal record * Submit...

# MD SG Entry Level Training ## Maryland Security Guard License Requirements (SG-1) * Be 18 years of age or older * Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien * Submit a completed application to the state's security agency * Submit to a background check showing that you don't have a criminal record * Submit to drug screening * Submit a fingerprint card along with your application * Submit a passport-style photo * Pay a small licensing fee * Be able to write and speak in English fluently * Be in good physical condition ## Maintaining Your Security License (SG-1) * You must complete 12 hours of initial security training. * Or have been a police officer within the last immediate 3 years * At least 90 days before a certification expires, the applicant shall mail to the Secretary: * A renewal application form * The amount of the renewal fee * The amount of any late fee, as determined by the Secretary * Complete 10 hours of continuing security training. ## Maryland Security Guard License Limitations (SG-2) * Certification can be denied in the event of the following: * The applicant or individual fraudulently or deceptively obtains or attempts to obtain certification as a security guard * If, under the laws of the United States or of any state, the applicant or individual pleads guilty or nolo contendere to or is convicted of (1) a felony; or (2) a misdemeanor that’s directly related to the fitness and qualification of the applicant or individual to be certified as a security guard. * The individual has been convicted of: * A disqualifying crime, under § 5-101 of the Public Safety Article * A crime of violence, under § 14-101 of the Criminal Law Article * If currently or formerly employed as a police officer, the individual has had any formal findings by a court, hearing board, or other governmental entity of unlawful or excessive use of force or of making a false statement during the individual's employment with the law enforcement agency. ## Identifying Criminal Scenarios | Scenario 1 (SG-3) During a Washington Commanders football game at Commanders Field, the crowd is electrified by the team’s performance. In the midst of the excitement, a young fan named Jake is in the stands, eagerly cheering for his favorite team. Jake is a die-hard Commanders fan. As the game progresses, Jake notices a commotion a few rows ahead. A jersey, freshly purchased, catches his eye. It’s a limited-edition, signed jersey, left momentarily unattended by its owner, who went to get a drink. Jake discreetly grabs the jersey and tucks it under his own jacket. ## Scenario 1 Continued... (SG-3) As soon as the theft is noticed, the jersey's owner reports it to stadium security, who quickly review surveillance footage. Jake is soon identified and apprehended by security personnel. The footage clearly shows him taking the jersey. Jake is escorted out of the stadium and handed over to local law enforcement. He faces charges of theft, which under Maryland law could result in significant penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment. ## Scenario 1 Elements of Theft (SG-3) Md. Criminal Law Code Ann. § 7-104 * A person may not willfully or knowingly obtain or exert unauthorized control over property, if the person: * Intends to deprive the owner of the property; * Willfully or knowingly uses, conceals, or abandons the property in a manner that deprives the owner of the property; or * Uses, conceals, or abandons the property knowing the use, concealment, or abandonment probably will deprive the owner of the property. ## Scenario 2 (SG-3) During a Travis Scott concert at CFG Bank Arena, a fan named Mike, heavily intoxicated, starts causing a disturbance. He shouts loudly, yells at other fans, and spills his drink, ignoring requests to calm down. Mike’s erratic behavior escalates as he climbs onto seats, obstructing views. Arena security intervenes, but Mike resists, becoming more aggressive. Security escorts Mike out, but he continues to resist, leading to his arrest by local law enforcement. ## Scenario 2 Elements of Disorderly Conduct (SG-3) Md. Criminal Law Code Ann. § 10-201 * “Public place” means a place to which the public or a portion of the public has access and a right to resort for business, dwelling, entertainment, or other lawful purpose. * A place used for public resort or amusement, including an amusement park, golf course, racetrack, sports arena, swimming pool, and theater. * A person may not willfully act in a disorderly manner that disturbs the public peace. * A person may not willfully fail to obey a reasonable and lawful order that a law enforcement officer makes to prevent a disturbance to the public peace. ## Scenario 3 (SG-3) During a University of Maryland men’s basketball game at Xfinity Center, fans Tom and Jerry get into a heated verbal exchange over a controversial call. Their argument escalates when Tom shoves Jerry. In retaliation, Jerry punches Tom causing a commotion in the stands. Security quickly intervenes, separating the two men and escorting them out of the arena. Both are taken into custody by the police. ## Scenario 3 Elements of 2nd Degree Assault (SG-3) Md. Criminal Law Code Ann. § 3-203 * A person may not commit an assault. * “Physical injury” means any impairment of physical condition, excluding minor injuries. ## Legal Authority to Arrest (SG-4) Maryland’s Business Occupations and Professions Article § 19-101(j) defines a security guard as an individual who provides security guard services to any person on behalf of a security guard agency. Security guard services include any activity that is performed for compensation as a security guard to protect any individual or property. There are no powers of arrest granted to a security guard certified under Title 19, of Maryland’s Business Occupations and Professions Article. ## Maryland's Rights for a Citizens Arrest (SG-4) In Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. v. Paul, 256 Md. 643, 261 A.2d 731 (1970), the Maryland’s Court of Appeals described the authority of a citizen to make an arrest in Maryland. A private person has the authority to arrest without a warrant only when: * There is a felony being committed in his presence. * A felony has been committed whether or not in his presence, and the person/arrester has probable cause to believe the person he arrested committed the felony. * A misdemeanor is being committed in the presence or view of the person/arrester pertaining to a breach of the peace. Breach of the peace signifies disorderly, dangerous conduct disruptive of the public peace. ## Use of Force Policy (SG-5/6) CSC's Use of Force Policy primarily falls into the category of "Hands Off" as it applies to general event staff roles. It is the duty of the staff to use the following techniques: * Observation * Prevention * De-escalation Verbal abuse is never a justification for the use of force. CSC staff may sometimes need to physically separate or escort subjects who have violated venue policy. This is to be done while exercising the minimum physical contact necessary to maintain control of subjects until law enforcement arrives. Examples of situations wherein reasonable force might be appropriate: * To prevent physical injury to others, the subject, or you. * To prevent a subject from fleeing (e.g., field incursion or other disturbance). * To control a combative subject (e.g., subject fleeing or fighting with another guest). ## Reporting Use of Force (SG-7) Incident Reports must be completed within 48 hours, should any degree of Use of Force be utilized. The following aspects must be noted in the report: * The type of encounter. * The type of force used. * The location of the incident where force was used. * Whether the individual against whom force was used was arrested and, if known, charges the individual received. * Whether the individual against whom force was used requested or required medical care. * Whether the security guard requested or required medical care. * Demographic information about individuals against whom force was used and any security guard involved, including race, ethnicity, gender, and age. ## Legal Ramifications for Use of Force (SG-8) When use of force is not justified, civil and criminal penalties can be issued, including but not limited to: * Assault/Battery (Maryland Criminal Law §3-203) * False Imprisonment * Civil lawsuits ## What is De-Escalation? (SG-9 thru 11) * De-escalation is the process of calmly communicating with an individual who is agitated to understand, manage, and resolve their concerns. * Verbal and nonverbal techniques are used to take control over a situation without the use of physical force to reduce/eliminate the possibility of violence. * De-escalating conflict demonstrates to employees that their leader can handle difficult situations calmly and effectively, instilling a higher sense of trust. ## De-Escalation Techniques (SG-9 thru 11) * Approach the situation in a calm manner * Be empathetic and non-judgmental * Respect personal space. * Have positive and nonthreatening body language. * Avoid overreacting and focus on feelings. * Speak in a low, even tone. * Allow silence for reflection and time for decision-making. * Don’t become defensive to comments, curses, or insults as the tension doesn’t involve you. * Be honest, lying to calm an individual will only lead to higher conflict once discovered. * Set limits, but always give choices when applicable! ## Have a Plan B (SG-9 thru 11) * As tempting as it may be to just give an individual whatever necessary, the use of proper communication to express themselves will enable them to fulfill their needs. * Getting what is wanted needs to be contingent on safe and calm behavior! * If what the person is asking for is not possible, or the situation continues to escalate despite your best efforts, try asking the person to do something specific. * There are certain instances where the best approach is to stand by and do nothing. If the person indicates they need to be left alone or seems to get more agitated when you try to talk with them, back down! * The more the situation escalates, the less capable the person becomes of controlling themselves, so don’t rush the process. * Remember that a person who is agitated or exhibiting disruptive behavior cannot instantly be brought to a complete state of calm; it is a process that needs to be taken one step at a time. ## Limitations and Requirements of Carrying Weapons (SG-12) * A security guard must hold a valid permit to carry a handgun under title 5, subtitle 3 of the public safety article before carrying a handgun while providing security guard services. * A security guard may not carry a handgun while providing security guard services until: * Receiving approval to carry a handgun from the licensed security guard agency or security guard employer; * Notifying the secretary of the intent of the security guard to carry a handgun while providing security guard services; and * The secretary confirms that the security guard has a valid permit to carry a handgun under title 5, subtitle 3 of the public safety article and has not been convicted of a disqualifying crime under § 5-101 of the public safety article. ## Techniques Used When Encountering An Individual in Crisis (SG-13) * Approach the person calmly, using a gentle tone and non-threatening body language. * Maintain a safe distance to prevent escalation. * Communicate using concise and easy to understand language. * Use open-ended questions and be an active, non-judgmental listener. ## Techniques Used When Encountering An Individual With A Disability (SG-14) * Be patient and empathetic. *Speak clearly and use simple and clear language. *Pay attention to body language and facial expressions. *Respect personal space and offer choices (i.e. different screening methods or routes). *Be flexible, calm, and reassuring. ## Techniques Used When Encountering A Juvenile (SG-15) * Use non-threatening language. * Good body language. * Speak clearly and use simple and clear language. * Understand developmental differences. * Use empathy and patience. ## Techniques Used When Encountering An Individual With Behavioral Health Concerns (SG-16) * Actively listen and fully focus on the individual. * Understand signs of stress and body language. * Know crisis intervention techniques and resources available. * Be supportive and show empathy. * Be compassionate and understanding. ## How To Seek Aid for A Person in Need (SG-17) There will come a time when you encounter an individual requiring aid to some extent, follow these tips so you can effectively request care: * Remain calm, doing so will help the person in need do the same. * Locate your supervisor or anyone nearby with a radio. * If you must report the incident yourself over the radio, please state the following: * Location (Be specific). * Gender. * Approx. age range. * What are we dealing with? * Do you need Police/SPOs? What are they walking into? * Do you need EMS? What is the medical issue? Not breathing? Passed out? Heart attack? * Are they alert and conscious? * This helps EMS and Police respond with proper supplies.