Category: Blog

Choosing the right security company is one of the most important decisions a business can make. The wrong choice can leave your property vulnerable, expose you to liability, and damage your reputation. Here’s what to look for.

1. Verify DCJS Licensing

In Virginia, all security companies must be licensed by the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). Ask for their license number and verify it directly with DCJS. Unlicensed companies put your business at legal risk.

2. Evaluate Training Standards

The best security companies invest heavily in training. Ask about their training programs: Do they go beyond the minimum DCJS requirements? Do they offer ongoing professional development? Companies like The Elite Force operate their own DCJS-certified training academy, ensuring officers receive comprehensive, up-to-date training.

3. Check Insurance and Bonding

Ensure the company carries adequate general liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and professional liability coverage. This protects your business if an incident occurs while their officers are on your property.

4. Review Their Reputation

Look for companies with a proven track record. Check online reviews, ask for references from similar businesses, and inquire about their experience in your specific industry. A security company that specializes in construction sites may not be the best fit for an executive protection detail.

5. Assess Technology and Reporting

Modern security companies should provide detailed reporting, real-time communication capabilities, and transparent accountability systems. Ask about their patrol tracking, incident reporting, and how they handle communication between officers and management.

6. Compare Pricing — But Don’t Choose on Price Alone

The cheapest security company is rarely the best. Low prices often mean undertrained officers, poor supervision, and high turnover. Focus on value — what you get for your investment — rather than the lowest hourly rate.

Get a Free Security Assessment

The Elite Force offers complimentary security assessments for businesses throughout Virginia. Our team will evaluate your needs and provide a customized security plan. Request your free assessment today.

If you’re considering a career in security in Virginia, understanding the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) certification process is your first step. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

What is DCJS?

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is the state agency responsible for regulating and certifying private security professionals. All security officers, private investigators, and related professionals in Virginia must obtain DCJS certification before they can legally work in the field.

Types of DCJS Certifications

DCJS offers several categories of certification:

• 01E – Unarmed Security Officer: The entry-level certification for security guards. This 2-day course covers legal authority, patrol techniques, and emergency procedures.
• 05E/75E – Armed Security Officer: For officers who will carry firearms on duty. Requires completion of unarmed certification first, plus additional firearms training.
• 02E – Private Investigator: A comprehensive 7-day program for those pursuing investigation careers.
• 44E – Bail Enforcement Agent: Specialized training for fugitive recovery professionals.
• 13E – General Instructor: For experienced professionals who want to teach DCJS courses.

How Long Does Certification Take?

Training duration varies by certification type. Entry-level unarmed security (01E) takes just 2 days, while more specialized programs like private investigation (02E) require up to 7 days of classroom and practical training.

Certification Costs

Training costs range from $50 for in-service renewals to $500 for comprehensive entry-level programs. Many employers, including The Elite Force, cover certification costs for their officers.

Start Your Certification Today

The Elite Force Training Academy offers all major DCJS certification courses. Browse our complete course catalog or contact us to enroll.

Houses of worship have always been places of peace, community, and sanctuary. Unfortunately, security incidents at churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious institutions have increased in recent years, making professional security planning more critical than ever.

The Growing Need for Church Security

Religious institutions face a unique set of security challenges. They are open and welcoming by nature, often have large gatherings of people, and may lack the security infrastructure found in commercial buildings. This combination makes them potential targets for various security threats.

Key Elements of an Effective Church Security Plan

A comprehensive church security program should include:

• Risk Assessment: Identify potential vulnerabilities specific to your facility and congregation.
• Trained Security Team: Whether volunteer or professional, your security team needs proper training in threat detection and emergency response.
• Emergency Action Plans: Document procedures for various scenarios including active threats, medical emergencies, and natural disasters.
• Access Control: Implement systems to monitor who enters your facility, especially during services and events.
• Communication Systems: Ensure security personnel can communicate quickly and effectively during incidents.

Professional vs. Volunteer Security

While volunteer security teams can be effective, professional security officers bring trained expertise, certification, and legal authority that volunteers may lack. Many congregations opt for a hybrid approach — trained volunteers supplemented by professional officers during larger events.

How The Elite Force Can Help

The Elite Force provides professional church security services throughout Virginia. Our DCJS-certified officers understand the unique needs of religious institutions and work discreetly to maintain a welcoming atmosphere while ensuring safety. Contact us for a free security assessment.

Armed security officers carry a significant responsibility. Beyond carrying a firearm, they must possess a diverse skill set that enables them to protect people and property effectively while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.

1. Situational Awareness

The ability to continuously assess your environment is the cornerstone of effective security. Armed officers must be able to identify potential threats before they escalate, recognize unusual behavior patterns, and maintain a 360-degree awareness of their surroundings at all times.

2. De-Escalation Techniques

While armed officers are trained to use force when necessary, the best officers rarely need to. Mastering verbal de-escalation techniques, understanding body language, and knowing how to calm tense situations are invaluable skills that prevent incidents from escalating.

3. Firearms Proficiency

Regular training and qualification are non-negotiable. Armed officers must maintain their DCJS certification through ongoing firearms training, including both marksmanship and tactical decision-making scenarios. At The Elite Force, we provide comprehensive firearms training through our DCJS-certified academy.

4. Report Writing

Detailed, accurate documentation is crucial in the security industry. Officers must be able to write clear incident reports, maintain daily activity logs, and document observations that could be important for investigations or legal proceedings.

5. Physical Fitness

Security work can be physically demanding. Officers may need to stand for extended periods, patrol large areas, or respond quickly to emergencies. Maintaining good physical condition ensures you can perform your duties effectively and safely.

Get Certified with The Elite Force

Ready to develop these skills? Our DCJS-certified training academy offers comprehensive armed security courses that prepare you for a successful career. Visit our Training Academy page to learn more about our courses.