What is the source of a PSO's authority to detain without Special Police Authority?

The source of a PSO's authority to detain without Special Police Authority primarily stems from State Law. Each state establishes legal frameworks that govern the powers and responsibilities of security officers, including their ability to detain individuals under certain circumstances. These laws often define the scope of authority granted to private security personnel and set parameters on when and how they can exercise such authority, promoting the importance of understanding state-specific regulations for effective and lawful operations.

While federal and statutory laws can provide broader guidelines or protections, the specific authorization to detain generally falls under the jurisdiction of state law, which may vary from one state to another. Common law, while it forms a basis for many legal principles, is less applicable in defining the specific authority of PSOs in the context of detainment. Understanding these distinctions is essential for PSOs to operate within their legal bounds effectively.