The Security and Private Detective businesses in Georgia are regulated by the State of Georgia Professional Licensing Board.  The board that specifically oversees these businesses is The Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies made up of the following members:

James "Tripp" Mitchell, Chairman
Gary A. Baker, Cognizant Member
John Villines
Chief Woodrow W. Blue, Jr.
Vernon M. Keenan
Mr. Robert F. Warner
Patricia Mincey

This constitutes the prescribed seven members: two private detectives, two private security businessmen, two state, county or municipal law enforcement officers and one consumer member.  Typically, the Board meets six times each year. Board meetings are open to the public, with the exception of executive session, in which confidential matters such as complaints, disciplinary items, and applications are discussed. 

Probably more than the regulatory boards in most states, this board in Georgia operates "in the sunshine" and welcomes the attendance of the professionals in our industry and the public in general at their meetings.  Over the last 5 years, the board has undertaken to improve the private security industry in Georgia by adopting a more stringent training and continuing education requirement for Security Officers and Private Detectives and by vigorously pursuing those who break the rules and suspending their licenses.  The requirements of Security Companies and Officers are in line with the standards that are advised by ASIS International.   You can read the newsletter of the Board at their website at:

http://www.sos.ga.gov/plbnews/detectives/default.htm

On the below site you can link to Licensing Information, Laws, Policies and Rules and an FAQ page that covers most of the questions that are most commonly asked about the licensing process. 

http://www.sos.ga.gov/plb/detective/default.htm

Come back often to this page on the ASIS Atlanta website to stay up to date on the latest changes or proposed changes in the legislation that affects our industry.