The Best Private Security in New Athens, OH

In New Athens, Ohio, all private security companies and individual security officers must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Public Safety's Private Investigator Security Guard Services (PISGS) section. Companies must obtain a Class A, B, or C license depending on their services, and all guards must complete 20 hours of pre-assignment training, pass a background check, and be at least 18 years old. Additionally, while New Athens doesn't have specific local ordinances beyond state law, it's crucial to verify that any company you hire has their state license in good standing and that their guards carry their state-issued registration cards while on duty.

Given New Athens's mix of residential neighborhoods, local businesses, and its proximity to rural areas, common security needs include residential patrol services for larger properties or neighborhoods concerned about theft or trespassing, static guard services for community events or construction sites, and alarm response services. Many local businesses, especially those along the main commercial corridors, utilize after-hours security checks. Due to the town's setting, some services also specialize in securing larger parcels of land or agricultural property from unauthorized access or vandalism.

Costs in New Athens are generally influenced by Ohio's market rates but can be slightly lower than in major metropolitan areas. For an unarmed security officer, you can expect to pay between $25 to $40 per hour. Armed security officers, which require additional state certification, typically range from $40 to $60 per hour. These rates usually cover the guard's wages, insurance, and administrative costs. For long-term contracts or specific services like mobile patrols for a neighborhood, companies may offer discounted monthly packages. Always request a detailed, written quote that outlines all fees.

First and foremost, verify their Ohio PISGS license number and check for any disciplinary actions on the state's website. Look for a company with local experience; they will understand the specific dynamics of New Athens and have established relationships with the Harrison County Sheriff's Office and local first responders. Ask about their hiring and training processes for guards, their insurance coverage (general liability and workers' compensation), and their protocols for communication and incident reporting. Request references from other clients in the area, such as local business owners or homeowner associations.

Private security guards in New Athens, like elsewhere in Ohio, have the same arrest authority as any private citizen. This means they can perform a 'citizen's arrest' if they witness a felony being committed or have reasonable grounds to believe a felony has been committed. However, they cannot detain individuals for minor misdemeanors. Their primary role is to observe, report, and deter crime by their presence. A reputable security company will have clear use-of-force and detention policies that comply with Ohio law and will train their guards to de-escalate situations and contact the Harrison County Sheriff's Office immediately when police intervention is required.