What should an officer do when encountering an unauthorized person on the premises?

When an officer encounters an unauthorized person on the premises, the appropriate action is to approach them professionally to determine their purpose. This approach is crucial for several reasons. First, a professional demeanor helps establish authority while also ensuring that the interaction remains calm and respectful, which can de-escalate any potential tension.

By determining the individual's purpose, the officer can assess whether the person poses any risk to the safety and security of the premises. This can involve asking questions to understand why they are there and how they gained access. If the individual does not have a legitimate reason to be there or refuses to comply, the officer is then in a position to escort them off the property safely and appropriately. This systematic approach prioritizes safety while respecting individuals' rights.

In contrast, simply ignoring a non-threatening but unauthorized person does not address the security risk they may represent, as their presence could lead to potential threats or unlawful activities later. Asking someone to leave without ascertaining their intentions could escalate the situation unnecessarily, and calling the authorities immediately might not be warranted unless there is a clear reason for heightened intervention. Therefore, engaging directly with the individual is the most effective and responsible course of action.