OSH Security Practice Test

Which of the following situations best describes an indictable offence?

1. One person applies force to another person without permission or justification

2. A petty crime committed on federal property at an airport

3. A Labour Relations Act violation during a labour dispute involving a lockout of the employees

4. A serious crime witnessed by a security guard or another person

The correct answer is: A serious crime witnessed by a security guard or another person

An indictable offence typically refers to a serious crime that is subject to a more severe level of punishment compared to summary offences. The situation that describes a serious crime, especially one that is recognized under criminal law, fits the characteristics of an indictable offence. When considering the context, the scenario of a serious crime witnessed by a security guard or another person demonstrates the gravity associated with indictable offences. These offences are generally more impactful and require formal legal proceedings, often leading to significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. In contrast, the other situations presented do not fit the threshold of seriousness required to be classified as indictable offences. For instance, applying force without permission, while potentially serious, may fall under assault or battery charges, which can be classified as either summary or indictable, depending on the circumstances. Petty crimes on federal property, like minor theft or vandalism, are typically treated as summary offences. Lastly, violations related to labour disputes generally pertain to civil laws rather than criminal offences unless they escalate to actions that break the law, which again wouldn't inherently classify them as indictable without additional context.