Private Law Enforcement

Throughout history, organized communities have been attentive in providing their citizens and their property with safety, security, and freedom from fear and danger. One of the earliest known recorded forms of private law enforcement either as a supplement to public policing or for the protection of the wealthy people and businesses was in ancient Rome and Greece. In contemporary times, private law enforcement refers to private entities or organizations that provide security-related services to individuals, businesses, or governmental agencies for a fee. This entry reviews the origins of modern private law enforcement; discusses how those agencies are utilized by individuals, corporations, and governments; and highlights some concerns with private law enforcement.