Identify a key responsibility of a security officer in preventing theft.

Monitoring access points and conducting regular patrols is a key responsibility of a security officer in preventing theft because it directly correlates with maintaining safety and security within a protected area. By overseeing entrances and exits, security officers can control who enters and exits a premises, thereby reducing opportunities for theft. Additionally, regular patrols help deter potential criminal activity by increasing the visibility of security personnel, which can discourage would-be thieves from attempting to steal.

The proactive nature of regularly monitoring and patrolling also allows security officers to spot suspicious behavior or unauthorized access in real time, enabling them to intervene before any theft occurs. This vigilance is crucial in creating an environment where theft is less likely to happen.

In contrast, the other options listed do not primarily relate to theft prevention; for example, collecting fines and issuing parking tickets are primarily related to enforcement of rules rather than directly preventing theft. Similarly, managing social events is more about coordination and planning rather than security, making those responsibilities less aligned with the objective of theft deterrence.