Every day, as armed security officers in Ohio, we face significant challenges and backlash while performing our duties. Our primary goal is to ensure the safety and security of the places we protect, and to maintain order in sometimes unpredictable situations. Despite misconceptions about our roles, we are dedicated professionals trained to handle dangerous situations until law enforcement can arrive.

Yet, there remains a significant gap in our ability to fully perform our duties - the right to detain individuals who pose a threat until they can be properly turned over to law enforcement. Currently, we lack the proper authority to legally detain or arrest subjects during the critical moments of a security breach or incident. This limitation often puts us at a disadvantage, hindering our ability to effectively manage volatile situations, and could potentially endanger the very lives we are dedicated to protecting.

Armed security officers play a critical role in maintaining public safety alongside police officers. Permitting us the right to arrest subjects under strict guidelines and immediate handover to law enforcement can bridge the vital gap between initial response and formal law enforcement intervention. This authority would not only enhance the security at our posts but also provide a safer environment for the public, potentially preventing dangerous incidents from escalating uncontrollably.

Statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlight the risks faced by security officers, with a significant number of assaults and threats occurring annually. Enabling us with the right to arrest would equip us with a necessary tool to de-escalate those situations before law enforcement arrives.

We propose that Ohio legislators review and amend current laws to allow armed security officers the authority to arrest individuals when necessary. This would involve establishing clear protocols and training criteria to ensure responsible and lawful execution of this duty.

We ask the state of Ohio to recognize the importance of our role in public safety and to empower us with the necessary authority to perform our duties more effectively. With your support, we believe we can create a safer environment for everyone. Please sign this petition to support this important cause and to bring about a critical change in our state's security policies.