NCJ Number
86593
Date Published
1980
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This survey of the National Central Bureaus of the International Criminal Police Organization provides information on firms and companies that install security equipment, supply guards, or conduct investigations in the various countries represented.
Abstract
The survey sought information on (1) the services offered by private security firms, (2) the control of private security firms, (3) the rights and duties of security firms and personnel, and (4) evaluation of the activities of private security firms. Most of the responding countries have private security firms which install security equipment or provide security personnel; some firms offer both services. Just over 50 percent of the responding countries reported having private detective agencies. Three countries prohibit private detectives. Not all countries have controlling legislation for the licensing of private security firms. In some countries, only the firms providing security personnel and private detective agencies require a license. Relations between the police and security firms appear to be generally good and useful, particularly in the area of crime prevention. Police are also involved in the training of private security personnel. Overall, security personnel have no special law enforcement privileges. Because of the nature of their duties (crime prevention), they are more often involved in the arrest of suspects than are ordinary citizens, however. A number of countries indicated that persons arrested by security personnel must be handed over to the police immediately. Security personnel are generally licensed to carry a firearm, but in some cases the weapon may only be used for self defense. Most countries indicated that the police do not have the power to requisition the staff of private security organizations for official police duties. Survey questions and the responses from various countries are provided. (Author summary modified)