You can request that information in a written request to the Security Services Section of DCJS.
Private Security FAQs
How can I found out if anyone has made a complaint against my business, training school or registrant?
How can I found out if anyone has made a complaint against a business, training school or registrant?
You can request that information in a written request to the Security Services Section of DCJS.
What is an informal fact-finding conference?
An informal fact-finding conference is the first step in the appeal process if the respondent disagrees with the DCJS's decision to deny or sanction. This hearing is conducted to allow the respondent to dispute evidence or introduce evidence of mitigating circumstances.
If I disagree with the decision made by DCJS, what can I do?
You may appeal the decision by submitting a written request for an informal fact-finding conference. The decisions may continue to be appealed through a formal hearing, a Criminal Justice Services Board hearing, and finally the Circuit Court.
Where does the money collected from sanctions go?
By state law, all monetary penalties imposed as a sanction shall be deposited into the state treasury to the credit of the State Literary Fund. The Department of Criminal Justice Services does not benefit from monetary penalties.
Can DCJS suspend a license, registration, or certification if a fee payment is returned for non-sufficient funds?
Yes and this suspension is exempt from the Administrative Process Act.
I am unhappy with the fees I was charged by a private security services business. Can I file a complaint with DCJS?
DCJS does not regulate the fees charged by a private security business. We do require the business to maintain documentary evidence of terms between the client and the business. You can file a complaint if you feel the business did not meet its agreement with you.
I am unhappy with the results of an investigation conducted by a private investigator that I hired. Can I file a complaint with DCJS?
Yes, you should provide written information identifying the licensed private security business and the name of the investigator you contracted with to handle your investigation. You must provide information that can establish a violation of theVirginia Code or Adminstrative Code (regulations) governing private security. Fee disputes will not be investigated unless the terms of the contract were not fulfilled.
Can I file a complaint over the telephone?
A complaint may be filed via telephone only if the complaint alleges activities which constitute a life-threatening situation, or have resulted in personal injury/loss to the public or to a consumer, or which may result in imminent harm or personal injury, and that provides sufficient detailed information for DCJS to conduct an investigation.
Can I make an anonymous complaint?
Yes, however, you must provide enough detail for DCJS to conduct an investigation. If you wish to remain anonymous, you cannot reveal your identity to anyone with DCJS and/or connected with this investigation. If we know your identity, we cannot refuse to provide it if requested.
How do I file a complaint?
Complaints may be submitted: (1) In writing, or on a form provided by DCJS, signed by the complainant; (2) In writing, submitted anonymously, providing sufficient detailed information for DCJS to conduct an investigation; or (3) Via telephone, providing the complaint alleges activities which constitute a life-threatening situation, or have resulted in personal injury/loss to the public or to a consumer, or which may result in imminent harm or personal injury, and that provides sufficient detailed information for DCJS to conduct an investigation. .
Are the results of investigations made public?
The results of a complaint investigated by DCJS are available to the public.
What happens if a case is founded?
When an investigation is completed and violations of the Code of Virginia or Administrative Code (regulations) are founded, the respondent is notified by Consent Order. The Consent Order is a written, binding agreement that explains the violations and what the sanction may be. The sanction can range from probation to revocation to monetary penalty up to $2,500 per violation or any combination thereof. The sanction guidelines were endorsed by the Criminal Justice Service Board and take into consideration whether the offense is a 1st, 2nd or 3rd incident. The penalties become more severe if violations are repeated.
What happens if a case is unfounded?
After an investigation is completed and determined unfounded, the complainant and respondent are notified by mail that the investigation is closed and was unfounded.
Do the recipients of the complaint have the right to know who complained?
The respondent in a complaint has the right to know the source of the complaint. The respondent will be informed if the complaint is submitted anonymously. Once DCJS knows the identity of the complainant, we cannot withhold that information from the respondent.
Are disciplinary actions public or private?
Public and they are available upon request.
Are complaints public or private?
Investigations conducted in response to a complaint become a matter of public record when the investigation and adjudication is completed.