MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota authorities are combating the issue of unlicensed security firms, exemplified by the lawsuit filed by the Private Detective and Protective Agent Services Board against Men in Black Security for operating without a license.
Despite presenting themselves as “de-escalation specialists” and disavowing the label of security, the state contends that Men in Black engages in security functions, including crowd control and potentially being armed.
The lawsuit cites the denial of Men in Black’s license due to the owner’s prior conviction for illegal pistol possession.
The company, despite the license denial, allegedly continues to offer protective agent services in Minnesota.
Board chair Rick Hodsdon emphasizes the importance of licensing to ensure proper training, accountability, and the exclusion of individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Brooklyn Park initially approved a contract with Men in Black but reconsidered upon learning of the state’s investigation.
Men in Black refrains from commenting on the lawsuit, while the lawsuit claims the company recently removed “security” references from its website.
Hodsdon asserts that engaging in unlicensed security constitutes a crime, with law enforcement agencies showing increased interest in such cases.
