ABSTRACT
This chapter compares and contrast the major distinctions between private security and public policing, and recognizes the various occupational roles and positions available in the field of private security. It identifies state regulations governing the licensure of guard companies and firms and discusses the differences between armed and unarmed security officers. The chapter describes the responsibilities of specialized security services such as armed couriers and alarm companies and outlines the scope of responsibilities of theft prevention and asset protection specialists. It illustrates the necessity of education and training in the field of private security, and explains the contributions professional organizations make to the field of private security. In the security manager rankings, criminal investigation and arrest and prosecution show up in the lower rankings. This prioritization, in and of itself, is a telling distinction, though it should not be viewed as justification for a sharp division.
