What should a PSO do if they observe a crime in progress?

When a PSO (Public Safety Officer) observes a crime in progress, the most responsible action is to notify law enforcement immediately. This approach is crucial for several reasons.

First, law enforcement professionals are specifically trained to handle criminal situations, including the interception of suspects, evidence collection, and ensuring the safety of all parties involved. By alerting law enforcement, a PSO ensures that trained personnel are on the scene, which minimizes the risk to themselves and others.

Additionally, time is often of the essence in crime scenarios. Reporting the crime allows for a quicker response, which could help prevent further criminal activity and can assist in the apprehension of the suspect. This also prevents the escalation of the situation, which could potentially endanger civilians nearby.

In contrast, directly confronting a suspect without adequate training can pose significant risks. It may lead to dangerous encounters that could endanger the PSO and others, especially if the suspect is armed or aggressive. Waiting for backup or taking matters into one’s own hands further complicates the situation by potentially introducing more chaos and miscommunication. Prioritizing the notification to law enforcement ensures that the incident is managed effectively and safely.