NCJ Number
112391
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1987) Pages: 44-51
Date Published
1987
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Private security is one of the Nation's fastest growing industries and possibly one of law enforcement's most overlooked resources and misunderstood allies.
Abstract
In California, it is estimated that private security guards outnumber sworn peace officers by four to one. Factors contributing to this growth include high crime rates, a tighter economy, and a reevaluation of police resource allocation priorities. While traditionally, private security duties have been passive, they are becoming more proactive as security guards are increasingly used to perform what have traditionally been sworn law enforcement duties. This, in turn has raised issues regarding minimum standards and training of private security personnel. In California, the Bureau of Collection and Investigation Services (BCIS) regulates security activities. BCIS issues guard, baton, and firearms cards; develops standards; and is responsible for training. Training, if any, consists of about 2 hours' self-study and an open book test on arrest powers, usually administered by the employer. Contract employees must register with BCIS, while in-house security personnel need not unless they carry batons or firearms. Despite low minimum standards and poor training, private security personnel provide a crime prevention and law enforcement resource worthy of greater cooperation and communication between private and public sectors.