The Impact of Wrongful Use of Firearms

The wrongful use of a firearm by a security officer can have devastating consequences, including legal penalties, loss of employment, civil lawsuits, reputational damage, and even criminal charges. Security officers are entrusted with protecting lives and property, but misusing a firearm can escalate a situation unnecessarily, cause harm to innocent people, and lead to severe repercussions for the officer and their employer.

Consequences of Wrongful Firearm Use

Legal Consequences – Security officers who misuse a firearm can face criminal charges, including assault, manslaughter, or even murder. Convictions can lead to imprisonment, fines, and loss of firearm privileges. Even if the shooting is not criminally prosecuted, civil lawsuits from victims or their families may result in financial liabilities.
Loss of Security Licensing and Employment – A security officer who wrongfully uses a firearm may have their security license and firearm permit revoked, making it impossible to work in armed security again. Employers will also terminate officers who violate firearm policies or state laws.
Reputational Damage – A single wrongful shooting can damage the reputation of the security officer, their employer, and the security industry as a whole. The officer may struggle to find work in security or related fields after a firearm misuse incident.
Financial and Civil Liability – Even if an officer avoids criminal charges, they may still be sued for wrongful injury or death. Civil lawsuits can result in significant financial damages, including court fees and settlements. In many cases, employers will not cover legal fees if the officer acted outside company policy.
Emotional and Psychological Impact – Wrongful use of a firearm can lead to severe emotional distress, guilt, PTSD, and career-ending trauma. Officers who misuse their firearm may struggle with mental and emotional consequences for years.

Common Causes of Wrongful Firearm Use

Failure to Assess the Threat Properly – Shooting without confirming an immediate and legitimate deadly threat.
Acting Out of Fear or Emotion – Letting anger, frustration, or panic override proper judgment.
Lack of De-Escalation Attempts – Using a firearm before attempting verbal commands or non-lethal force.
Poor Training or Lack of Judgment – Inadequate firearm training, situational awareness, or decision-making under pressure.
Negligent Discharge – Firing a weapon accidentally due to improper handling or failure to follow firearm safety protocols.
Misidentification of a Suspect – Shooting the wrong person, such as an unarmed individual or an innocent bystander.
Exceeding Legal Authority – Using deadly force outside legal justification or attempting to act as a law enforcement officer.

Preventing Wrongful Firearm Use

Follow the Use-of-Force Continuum – Deadly force should only be used as a last resort when all other options fail.
Always Confirm a Legitimate Threat – Never fire unless there is a clear and immediate danger to life.
Engage in Regular Firearms Training – Continuous scenario-based training improves decision-making under stress.
Maintain Situational Awareness – Properly assess all aspects of a situation before drawing a firearm.
Stay Updated on Firearm Laws – Understanding state and local regulations ensures legal compliance.
Control Emotions and Reactions – Never let fear, anger, or adrenaline dictate firearm use.

Key Takeaways

Wrongful firearm use can lead to criminal charges, lawsuits, loss of licensing, and financial consequences.
Security officers are responsible for every bullet fired, and poor decisions can destroy careers and lives.
Proper judgment, de-escalation skills, and strict adherence to firearm laws are crucial for preventing wrongful firearm use.
Training and ongoing education help security officers make the right decisions under pressure.

Firearms are tools of protection, not weapons of intimidation or aggression. Security officers must always use sound judgment, restraint, and responsibility when carrying and handling a firearm.