South Carolina Code of Laws
Chapter 18 - Private Security And Investigation Agencies
Section 40-18-20. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires, the term:
(A) "Private investigation business" means engaging in business or accepting employment to obtain or furnish information with reference to the:
(1) identity, habits, conduct, business, occupation, honesty, integrity, credibility, knowledge, trustworthiness, efficiency, loyalty, activity, movement, whereabouts, affiliations, associations, transactions, acts, reputation, or character of a person;
(2) location, disposition, or recovery of lost or stolen property;
(3) cause or responsibility for fires, libels, losses, accidents, damage, or injury to persons or property; or
(4) securing of evidence to be used in a criminal or civil proceeding, or before a board, an administrative agency, an officer, or investigating committee.
(B) "Security business" means the provision of personnel whose duties include watching over, protecting, or defending people or property against intrusion, damage, injury, or loss, and specifically includes, but is not limited to, the following authorities or responsibilities: to allow or refuse access to property or certain areas of property; detect, prevent, or report entry by unauthorized persons; observe for and react to hazards or hazardous situations; observe for and react to violations of law or policy; observe for and react to emergencies; observe for and react to thefts or other incidents; apprehend or report intruders or trespassers; and maintain order or discipline.
(1) "Contract security business" means engaging in the security business by providing private patrol, watchman, guard, security, or bodyguard service for a fee.
(2) "Proprietary security business" means employing security officers who are assigned to security duties on the employer's property.
(C) "Security officer" means a person who provides security service by performing any security function, as detailed in this chapter.
(D) "SLED" means the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
(E) "Uniform" means clothing displaying a badge, emblem, insignia, indicia, or print identifying the wearer as a security officer.
HISTORY: 2000 Act No. 372, Section 1.

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