Who has the authority to possess and take custody of firearms not owned by a peace officer?

The authority to possess and take custody of firearms not owned by a peace officer is designated specifically to peace officers. This is due to their training, responsibilities, and legal backing that enable them to handle firearms in the course of maintaining public safety and upholding the law. Peace officers are equipped to manage firearms correctly and have a duty to respond to potential threats, which includes taking custody of firearms when necessary to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Their authority is reinforced by policies and laws that govern law enforcement, distinguishing them from private citizens or security personnel who do not have the same level of authority or training in this regard.

While security guards and members of the public may encounter firearms, their authority to manage or possess them is generally limited or subject to specific regulations, which do not extend to the same level of custody and responsibility inherent to peace officers. The same holds for law enforcement supervisors, whose roles do not inherently include direct possession of firearms not owned by peace officers unless otherwise specialized or authorized within their jurisdiction.