Complaints

I've submitted a complaint, what happens now?

• If you provided your email address in the complaint, you will receive an acknowledgment of receipt.
• The complaint will be reviewed to determine if there is a possible violation of N.C.G.S. 74D or 14B NCAC 17.
• If the initial review determines no violation occurred or the complaint is outside the Board’s jurisdiction, the complaint is closed, and you will be notified. The complaint is kept on file.
• If the initial review determines a violation within the Board’s jurisdiction may have occurred, the complaint is assigned to an investigator, and you will be notified.
• A copy of the complaint is sent to the respondent (the licensee, registrant, trainer, or unlicensed/unregistered person against whom the complaint has been filed).
• An investigation is conducted, during which the investigator will interview the complainant, the respondent, and witnesses, and review any relevant documents or evidence.
• The results of the investigations are presented to the Board’s Grievance Committee. The respondent, complainant, and witnesses are encouraged to attend the Grievance Committee meeting.
• If the Committee finds no violation occurred, the complaint is dismissed. If the Committee finds a violation did occur, it may impose a disciplinary action such as a letter of reprimand, civil penalty (monetary fine), suspension, revocation, or another alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does the Board investigate alleged Code of Conduct violations or ethics complaints?
  
  • No. The Board’s jurisdiction is limited to its law (NCGS 74D) and its administrative rules. There is no Code of Conduct or ethical standards those licensed with the Board are required to adhere to.
• What is the Board’s jurisdiction?
  
  • The Board’s jurisdiction is limited to activities within North Carolina, and to its law (NCGS 74D) and administrative rules.
• I was recently charged with a crime. Do I need to report it to the Board?
  
  • Reporting all criminal charges is encouraged. However, reporting is required only in certain circumstances: (1) Crimes that have as an essential element dishonesty, deceit, fraud, or misrepresentation; (2) Illegal use, possession, sale, manufacture, distribution, or transportation of a controlled substance, drug, narcotic, or alcoholic beverage; (3) Illegal use, carrying, or possession of a firearm; (4) Acts involving assault; (5) Acts involving unlawful breaking or entering, burglary, or larceny.
• What can the Board do to someone who has violated its laws or rules?
  
  • The Board may find a violation and choose to impose no penalty. If a penalty is imposed, however, the Board has several options, including: issue a letter of reprimand; suspend or revoke a license, registration or certification; or assess a monetary civil penalty. The Board may also agree to enter into a settlement agreement with the licensee, registrant, or certified trainer. The Board’s ability to impose a penalty against someone who is not licensed or registered with the Board is limited to issuing cease-and-desist orders and obtaining an injunction (court order) that orders an unlicensed or unregistered person to stop providing private protective services.
• How long does a complaint investigation take?
  
  • Typically, 2-4 months.
• Can I submit an anonymous complaint?
  
  • Yes, but the complaint allegation(s) must constitute a threat to the public health, safety, and welfare, as determined by the Director. Anonymous complaints that do not constitute a threat to the public health, safety, and welfare will not be investigated.