The Best Private Security in Uniontown, OH

In Uniontown, Ohio, all private security personnel and companies must be licensed through the Ohio Department of Public Safety's Division of Homeland Security, Private Investigator Security Guard Services (PISGS). Security guards must complete 20 hours of pre-assignment training, pass a background check, and be employed by a licensed agency. Companies must obtain a Class B license for security services. Additionally, while Uniontown itself doesn't have extra local ordinances, Stark County may have specific business registration requirements. Always verify that any company you hire displays their Ohio PISGS license number.

In Uniontown and the surrounding Stark County area, common private security needs include residential patrols and property checks for homes in neighborhoods like Briarwood or near the Uniontown Green, especially for residents who travel frequently. For businesses along Cleveland Avenue NW or in the Uniontown Plaza, services often include after-hours security, loss prevention, access control, and event security for community gatherings at the Uniontown Lions Club or local churches. Given the mix of suburban and semi-rural properties, mobile patrols and camera monitoring are particularly popular to cover larger lots and deter trespassing or vandalism.

Costs in Uniontown vary based on service type. For unarmed residential patrols or periodic checks, expect $20-$35 per hour. A dedicated unarmed guard for a business shift might cost $25-$45 per hour. Armed security, less common for most local needs, can run $40-$60+ per hour. Many companies offer package deals; for example, a weekly mobile patrol route for a neighborhood might cost $150-$300 per month. Factors influencing price include the specific location's crime rate (you can reference Stark County Sheriff or Uniontown Police statistics), required coverage hours, and whether special equipment like patrol vehicles is needed. Always get itemized quotes from several licensed providers.

When hiring in Uniontown, prioritize: 1) Valid Ohio PISGS license—verify it online with the state. 2) Local experience and knowledge of Uniontown's layout, including response protocols with the Uniontown Police Department and Stark County Sheriff. 3) Proper insurance (general liability and workers' comp). 4) Clear communication and customized plans—a good provider will assess risks specific to your area, whether you're near a busy corridor like State Route 619 or a quieter cul-de-sac. 5) References from other local clients. 6) Transparency about guard screening and training. Avoid companies that can't explain how they'd coordinate with local first responders in case of an incident.

In Ohio, private security guards in Uniontown have the same arrest powers as any private citizen. This means they can make a 'citizen's arrest' for a felony witnessed in their presence or a misdemeanor constituting a breach of peace occurring in their presence. However, they cannot detain individuals for minor infractions or on mere suspicion. Their primary role is to observe, report, and deter crime by their presence. They should immediately contact the Uniontown Police or Stark County Sheriff for any situation requiring law enforcement intervention. A reputable security company will have clear use-of-force and detention policies that comply with Ohio law and will train its guards to de-escalate situations common in a community setting like Uniontown.