Business. Scoop » Citizen’s Arrest Powers Are Expanding But So Are Responsibilities
Press Release – New Zealand Security AssociationCitizens arrest must never be treated as a simple solution to retail crime. It requires sound judgement, proper training, clear procedures and a strong focus on. . .
Press Release – New Zealand Security AssociationCitizens arrest must never be treated as a simple solution to retail crime. It requires sound judgement, proper training, clear procedures and a strong focus on safety. The New Zealand Security Association (NZSA) is cautioning businesses that expanded citizen’s arrest powers must not create unsafe expectations for security personnel or retail workers. The Crimes Amendment Bill, which passed its final reading on 6 August and is expected to come into effect with a week, expands the circumstances in which citizens can intervene to stop offending. However, the NZSA says having the legal power to act does not make intervention risk-free or appropriate in every situation. Gary Morrison, CEO of NZSA (Photo/Supplied)“The NZSA’s position is clear: citizen’s arrest should only be undertaken when it is lawful, necessary, proportionate and safe – and only by personnel with appropriate training,” says NZSA CEO Gary Morrison. “Citizen’s arrest must never be treated as a simple solution to retail crime. It requires sound judgement, proper training, clear procedures and a strong focus on safety. Detaining someone could quickly escalate, with the potential to cause injury to security personnel, retail workers, alleged offenders or members of the public. Businesses must carefully evaluate when intervention is appropriate and when alternative responses, including observation, evidence gathering and engagement with Police, may present a lower-risk option. Any decision to intervene must consider the seriousness of the incident, the risks involved, the capabilities of the personnel present and the safety of everyone at the scene. ”Training is essentialMorrison continued,“Expanded powers must be matched by expanded capability. The NZSA is working with recognised training providers and industry stakeholders to develop practical training pathways and guidance for the security and retail sectors. Training, de-escalation and risk management will be critical to achieving safe outcomes for workers, businesses, alleged offenders and the wider public. The NZSA remains committed to working with government, industry and training providers to support safe, professional and responsible security practices across New Zealand. ”About the NZSA:The New Zealand Security Association (NZSA) is the largest industry representative body for the security industry in New Zealand and represents over 85% of the industry by revenue. Its voluntary members include security providers ranging from large multi-nationals to sole traders and also includes individuals and companies who are not direct providers of security services but have an interest in the industry. As the voice of the New Zealand Security Industry, the NZSA aims to support and promote a thriving security industry in New Zealand that operates professionally and ethically, is committed to the safety of its workers and continuous improvement, meets the needs of its stakeholders and provides reward, opportunity and personal development for those who work within it. www. security. org. nzContent Sourced fromscoop. co. nzOriginal url