The bill introduces a significant modification to the way criminal detentions can be performed at private educational institutions. By empowering security personnel with limited detention authority, the legislation aims to bolster the campus safety framework. Public safety officers must adhere to strict protocols, including only detaining individuals for a reasonable timeframe of up to 30 minutes and ensuring they are trained in proper restraint methods. This is intended to protect the rights of individuals being detained as well as provide adequate training for those given the authority to act in such situations.
Summary
House Bill H7344 amends the existing laws pertaining to 'Arrest' under Chapter 12-7 of the General Laws of Rhode Island. The bill grants authority to non-sworn public safety officers, including security guards employed by private colleges and universities, to detain individuals suspected of committing a criminal offense on campus. This legislation aims to enhance campus safety by allowing trained security personnel to act promptly when they suspect a crime has occurred within their jurisdiction. The officers are required to contact local or state police immediately following the detention to transfer responsibility for the detained individual.
Contention
While the intent of H7344 is to improve campus security, it may raise concerns regarding the scope of authority granted to non-sworn officers. Critics could argue that allowing private security to detain individuals might lead to potential abuses of power, especially if officers are not properly trained or monitored. Additionally, the effectiveness of such measures in genuinely enhancing safety and preventing crime on campuses could be scrutinized. Some stakeholders may push for amendments that ensure greater oversight of the actions taken by non-sworn security personnel to prevent instances of excessive force or wrongful detentions.