Apprehension Risks for Alberta Security Guards: Lessons from the Sault Ste. Marie Biting Incident
Last Updated on January 25, 2026
On July 18, 2025, a theft apprehension at a retail business escalated when a suspect bit a security guard during the arrest. Police later charged the individual with both theft and assault.
Although this incident occurred outside Alberta, the risks it highlights are highly relevant to Alberta security guards, particularly those working in retail loss prevention, healthcare security, transit security, and event security. Across Alberta, licensed security guards conduct lawful arrests under the Criminal Code of Canada, but even routine apprehensions can quickly become dangerous.
This article examines the risks of physical apprehensions for Alberta security guards, explains why these situations escalate, and outlines best practices for use of force, de-escalation, and guard safety.
What Happened During the Theft Apprehension
According to media reports, security guards confronted a suspect believed to be shoplifting. When the guards attempted to place the individual under arrest, the suspect resisted and bit one of the guards, causing injury. Security staff eventually gained control and transferred the suspect to police custody.
For the general public, biting may seem extreme. For experienced Alberta loss prevention officers and security guards, it is a known risk during hands-on apprehensions, especially in close-contact environments such as:
- Retail loss prevention and mall security
- Hospital and healthcare security in Alberta
- Transit stations, shelters, and public facilities
- Event security and crowd management
When a suspect feels cornered or restrained, fear-driven resistance can lead to biting, spitting, head-butting, or sudden assaults.
Why Apprehensions Escalate: Fight, Flight, or Freeze
Most use-of-force incidents during shoplifting arrests do not start with aggression — they start with panic.
When a person realizes they are being detained by security:
- They often attempt to flee
- If blocked, stress and fear escalate
- Once physical control begins, resistance increases rapidly
- When arms or legs are restrained, suspects may resort to biting or spitting
This escalation pattern is predictable, which is why Alberta security guard training emphasizes preparation, positioning, communication, and backup planning.
Apprehension Risks for Alberta Loss Prevention Officers
1. Treat Every Apprehension as High Risk
Even cooperative suspects can become violent without warning.
Best practices include:
- Maintaining a reactionary gap
- Using controlled positioning and angles
- Avoiding cornering suspects without backup
2. Expect Resistance When Physical Contact Begins
Industry data shows resistance is most likely when:
- A guard blocks an exit
- The suspect is informed they are under arrest
- Physical control is initiated
- Multiple guards attempt to restrain limbs
This is the highest-risk moment for assaults, bites, and injuries.
De-Escalation and Tactical Communication for Alberta Security Guards
Before any physical intervention, communication and de-escalation should be the primary tools.
A calm, professional approach can significantly reduce resistance:
“I’m with store security. You’re under arrest for theft. You are not permitted to leave at this time. Cooperating is the safest option for everyone involved. Will you come with me so we can resolve this safely?”
This approach:
- Reduces fear-based reactions
- Demonstrates professionalism
- Supports legal defensibility
- Aligns with Alberta use-of-force training standards
Even when force becomes necessary, incidents are often less violent when de-escalation is attempted first.
Recognizing Pre-Assault Indicators in Alberta Security Work
Alberta security guards should be trained to identify pre-assault indicators, including:
- Clenched fists or jaw tightening
- Rapid breathing or pacing
- Sudden silence or verbal agitation
- Repeated glances toward exits
- Bladed stance or weight shifting
- Lowering posture or tensing the body
Early recognition allows guards to reposition, request backup, or disengage, reducing injury risk.
Alberta Security Guard Safety: No Merchandise Is Worth Injury
Licensed security guards in Alberta have a duty to protect property — but personal safety must always come first.
While preventing a suspect from leaving may be lawful, it also carries significant risk. Guards should never feel pressured to apprehend when conditions are unsafe.
Guard safety must outweigh:
- Recovering stolen merchandise
- Apprehension performance expectations
- Fear of criticism for disengaging
In many cases, disengagement and documentation are the most professional and defensible options.
Non-Contact Loss Prevention Policies in Alberta
Across Alberta, many retailers and security companies are adopting non-contact or hands-off loss prevention policies.
Benefits include:
- Fewer injuries to Alberta security guards
- Reduced assault and workers’ compensation claims
- Lower risk of excessive force complaints
- Reduced corporate and personal liability
Non-contact strategies may include observation, deterrence, video evidence, and police reporting instead of physical detention.
Use of Force and Lawful Arrest in Alberta
When physical control cannot be avoided, Alberta security guards must operate within the law.
Key legal considerations include:
- Section 494 of the Criminal Code (citizen’s arrest authority)
- Section 25 of the Criminal Code (use of force)
- Application of the National Use of Force Framework
Best practices:
- Ensure adequate backup
- Avoid crowded or confined public areas
- Control hands and head positioning
- Use appropriate PPE, such as bite-resistant gloves
- Apply only reasonable, necessary, and proportionate force
The Importance of Alberta Security Guard Training
Proper training and clear company policies significantly reduce risk. Alberta security guards should understand:
- When they are legally authorized to arrest
- When observation and reporting are safer
- How to apply de-escalation and tactical communication
- How to recognize pre-assault indicators
- How to apply lawful and reasonable force
Without proper Alberta security guard training, guards are left making high-risk decisions under pressure.
Conclusion: Alberta Security Guards Must Prepare for Reality
The Sault Ste. Marie biting incident demonstrates that even routine theft apprehensions can escalate quickly. For Alberta security guards, the lesson is clear: training, communication, and judgment save careers and prevent injuries.
Stopping a theft matters — but going home safe at the end of your shift matters more.
For Alberta-approved security guard training, including use of force, de-escalation, and lawful arrest, visit Security Guard Course (SGC) for programs designed for Alberta’s private security industry.