Duties

PURPOSE: Private watchmen are expected to perform certain duties. They have responsibilities to their employers as well as the citizens of St. Louis. The private watchman also has the duty to assist and cooperate with the St. Louis police officers. (1) Duties. It is the duty of every licensed private watchman to— (A) Observe and obey these regulations and to obey all lawful orders of any commissioned St. Louis police officer in all matters involving the need for police services; (B) Assist St. Louis police officers in preserving the peace when requested; and (C) Cooperate with St. Louis police officers in the performance of their duties. 1. Participation by private watchmen, on or off duty, in police action where police officers are on the scene shall be limited to identifying themselves to the officer(s) and offering assistance. 2. In any situation where police are present, the judgment of the officer(s) shall prevail. They are responsible for the proper handling and reporting of the incident in accordance with departmental policies. 3. Failure to cooperate with a St. Louis police officer may be cause for disciplinary action against a licensed private watchman. 4. Failure to assist a law enforcement agency or to aid in prosecution of a crime may be cause for disciplinary action against a licensed private watchman. AUTHORITY: section 84.340, RSMo 1986.* Original rule filed April 8, 1988, effective July 11, 1988. *Original authority: 84.340, RSMo 1939.