Investigations conducted in response to a complaint become a matter of public record when the investigation and adjudication is completed.
Complaints and Adjudication
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.
After an investigation is completed and determined unfounded, the complainant and respondent are notified by mail that the investigation is closed and was unfounded.
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.
The results of a complaint investigated by DCJS are available to the public.
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. .
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes and this suspension is exempt from the Administrative Process Act.
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.
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.
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.
You can request that information in a written request to the Security Services Section of DCJS.
You can request that information in a written request to the Security Services Section of DCJS.
