The Best Private Security in De Queen, AR

In De Queen, Arkansas, private security companies must be licensed by the Arkansas State Police Private Security Services Section. This includes obtaining a Company License (Class A) for the business itself, and individual licenses for security officers (Class D). Security officers must complete 8 hours of pre-assignment training, pass a criminal background check, and be at least 18 years old. Companies operating within the city limits of De Queen should also confirm if there are any additional local business licensing requirements with the De Queen City Clerk's office.

In a community like De Queen, common security services include static guard services for local businesses such as manufacturing plants, lumber yards, and retail stores, especially during non-business hours. Residential security patrols are also popular for larger properties or neighborhoods, and event security is frequently requested for community festivals, school events, or private gatherings. Given the city's location along major transportation routes like US Highways 70 and 59, asset protection for logistics and transportation companies is another significant service area.

In the De Queen area, costs can vary based on the specific assignment, but generally, you can expect to pay between $20 to $30 per hour for an unarmed security officer. For an armed officer, rates typically range from $30 to $45 per hour. These rates are influenced by factors such as the level of risk, required training (armed officers require additional licensing and training in Arkansas), and the duration of the contract. For long-term contracts or services for local industries like Tyson Foods or local timber companies, some security firms may offer discounted rates.

When hiring in De Queen, first verify that the company holds a valid Class A Company License from the Arkansas State Police. Ask for proof of insurance, including general liability and workers' compensation. It's also wise to check local references from other De Queen businesses or residents. Inquire about their officer training protocols, especially for any situation-specific to the area, such as securing agricultural or industrial properties. Finally, choose a company that demonstrates knowledge of the local community and has a clear communication plan for coordinating with the Sevier County Sheriff's Office or De Queen Police Department if needed.

In Arkansas, private security officers in De Queen operate under a 'citizen's arrest' authority, similar to any private citizen. This means they can detain an individual if they have witnessed a felony being committed or have reasonable grounds to believe a person has committed a felony. For misdemeanors, they can typically only make an arrest if the offense constitutes a breach of the peace and occurs in their presence. However, their primary role is to observe, report, and deter crime. They should immediately contact the De Queen Police Department or Sevier County Sheriff's Office to handle any formal arrest and custody. A reputable security company will have clear policies on this to protect both the client and their officers from liability.