Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What should an officer do if a business owner requests someone carrying a firearm to leave?

1. Ignore the owner's request

2. Ask the person to leave if they do not comply

3. Confiscate the firearm

4. Arrest the person immediately

The correct answer is: Ask the person to leave if they do not comply

When a business owner requests that someone carrying a firearm leave the premises, the most appropriate response is to ask the person to leave if they do not comply with the owner's request. This is grounded in the principle that property owners have the right to enforce rules within their own establishments, including those regarding the presence of firearms. If the individual refuses to leave upon request, it becomes the officer's responsibility to mediate the situation by asking the individual to vacate the premises. It is essential to respect the business owner’s rights while also ensuring that the situation is handled in a manner that promotes safety and compliance with local laws. Taking this action addresses the need for respect towards the business owner's authority and the legal framework surrounding private property rights. It also emphasizes the officer's role as a facilitator in such encounters, aiming to maintain peace rather than escalate the situation unnecessarily. The other options, such as ignoring the request, confiscating the firearm, or making an arrest, do not appropriately address the scenario and might lead to legal complications or heightened tensions.