Criminal Justice: Introduction to Security - Assignment Example

Introduction to Security History of Security Services Security and safety have been one of the primary concerns of human beings since the time when rudimentary forms of civilizations began to emerge. The Ancient Greek states and Roman Empire made valuable contributions towards the formation of legal systems and codes of conduct. The turbulent social eras of these advanced empires also spawned the need for private security forces that would be instrumental in crushing internal disorders. The elite Praetorian Guard was established by the Emperor Augustus to defend vital installations of the Roman Empire (George, 2000). The Romans also created the first police force known as “Vigiles” who were responsible for maintaining law and order in the urban areas of the empire (George, 2000). Europe in the middle ages rapidly transformed and evolved legal institutions. Written legal system led to the creation of representatives of the monarch that had the authority to mete out justice. The rise of modern security organizations emerged in the nineteenth century. The rapid industrialization, migration into urban areas, and development of cities led to proliferation of crime and corruption. This led to the requirement for private security agencies that would offer protection and safety to private citizens. They were usually hired by people who had unique security requirements which government law enforcement agencies could not handle. Allen Pinkerton and Robert Peel are credited with the establishment of modern security agencies. Security agencies before the modern time period were confined to specific tasks. Some of these agencies guarded the private property of important and influential people. Other agencies were involved in solving crime cases. Threats to Modern Society Crime is perhaps the greatest threat to modern society because of its pervasive influence. Organized criminal groups perform a range of activities that can affect society. These groups have extensive networks of criminals that engage in illicit activities that cause intimidation, coercion, and fear amongst people (Gill, 2006). Street crime is also one of the greatest threats to modern society. Perpetrated by individuals or low level gangs it can pose security threats to the lives and properties of citizens. Finally terrorism remains a major threat because of its ability to wreck havoc and destruction. Risk Risk is defined as the frequency or intensity of threat to any target. One of the primary risks for people and places is that of terrorism. Other types of risk can include criminal activity, arson, theft, and banditry. Criminal and terrorism pose significant levels of risks to people and places. Protection and Mitigation against Specific Threats There are numerous ways by which security personnel can mitigate or reduce the level of risks. Providing basic level of security is the most vital component of this defensive strategy. The target that is at risk should be surrounded by a perimeter security system that allows the personnel to monitor various locations of the installation (Gill, 2006). All entry points must have intrusion detection, weapons detection, and other systems that can check and monitor visitors entering and leaving the premises. The people who can be ideal targets should be given a separate entry and exit route. Security agencies can respond to different levels of threats if they pursue unique and innovative methods of security. Authority of Private Security Personnel Private security personnel are governed by the legal regulations and procedures of their national states. They do not enjoy the privileges of government police forces but they are allowed to keep weapons. The use of weapons is allowed for defensive purposes. This has to be proven in the court of law that they acted to protect the person or place which was targeted. Private security personnel do not have the authority to intimidate or interrogate people (Alabarda, 2007). However they are being recruited to guard the vital exit and entry routes of installations and borders. Private security agencies are being recruited by the government to secure public places. Some agencies have also been providing security inside combat zones. However some agencies do engage in such type of discrete behavior which can be considered to be against the legal regulations of that particular country. Security officers must be given greater autonomy and freedom in performing their duties. However care should be taken that this does not lead to misuse or abuse of their privileges and duties (Alabarda, 2007). Private security personnel should be given diversified tasks in order to relieve the burden on law enforcement agencies that are plagued by staff shortages and funding problems. The privatization of security forces should be allowed but there is a need for uniform and standard set of rules that can administer and supervise the industry. This would be beneficial in reducing or mitigating the threat of abuse or misuse of privileges and power. Levels of Security Protection Studies conducted regarding the security industry have categorized levels of security into five types. At the basic level the simplest types of security assets are deployed to protect assets. Basic level security could be applied in the homes of people which can consist of cheap and low cost systems (Alabarda, 2007). Low level security is used to prevent any unauthorized intrusion by the use of standard security systems. Examples of such systems are the ones which are installed and monitored at the offices of law enforcement agencies. Above this level is medium security which is concerned with protecting and safeguarding assets and people from moderate threats. High level security is considered with the detection and prevention of high security threats. It utilizes a number of techniques and systems in order to detect and deter external threats and risks. Examples of high level security can be the protection and defense of public buildings like courts and landmarks. Maximum security is considered to the broadest and comprehensive level of security which has been deployed against a range of threats and risks. Maximum level security can be applied for vital personnel like government officials and vital infrastructure like power plants. A number of electronic and conventional security systems can be used as measures or countermeasures for security threats. CCTV cameras and surveillance systems allow security personnel with the ability to monitor different locations of the installation (Alabarda, 2007). The use of secure exit and entry points can protect vital targets. Electronic perimeter security systems seek to prevent illegal breaches in security. Detection systems like X-Ray machines and metal detectors can be used to search any concealed weaponry by people. High level and maximum security installations can deploy hardened concrete walls, bulletproof glasses, and other sophisticated electronic systems to respond to an array of threats and risks. ASIS Code of Ethics ASIS provides a number of standard and uniform procedures and guidelines which are used to regulate and govern the private security industry. Its code of ethics requires that security personnel perform their duties and actions in a diligent and prudent manner. They are also required to respect the laws of their nation states. They are forbidden to engage in any illicit or illegitimate activity (Gibson, 2007). They must have excellent and exceptional communication, technical, and security skills in order to achieve their goals and objectives. Highest levels of professionalism and excellence are mandated by the ASIS code of ethics. The ASIS code of ethics provides a set of broad based guidelines that call for honesty, integrity, and truthfulness. Security agencies have to follow these guidelines in order to prevent any legal infringement. It is also vital and crucial that any personnel that violate these laws are given appropriate punishment. Any negligence or failure to do so would lead to damage in reputation and image of the security agency. References: George, B. And Button, M. (2000) "Private Security", Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Gill, M. (ed) (2006) "The Handbook of Security", Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Alabarda, Yusuf and Lisowiec, Rafal.  The Private Military Firms:  Historical Evolution and Industry Analysis.  Monterey, CA, Naval Postgraduate School, 2007 Gibson, Stevyn D.  Regulated Private Security Companies versus a Professional Security Sector:  A Cautionary Tale.   Journal of Security Sector Management 5:1-10 May 2007 Read More