Published on: October 15, 2024, 10:44h. 

Last updated on: October 15, 2024, 10:44h.

Protective Force International (PFI), a security firm, now serves 18 gaming properties in Las Vegas to ensure the safety and security of these casinos.

PFI, based in Las Vegas, supplements existing casino security forces or provides comprehensive security for the properties, often located on the Las Vegas Strip or off-Strip locations.

Smaller casinos may not always have the resources for a fully-staffed security department. Some gaming properties require additional security during busy periods or special events.

The firm collaborates closely with local police and other law enforcement agencies.

Extensive Training

PFI’s security guards are specially trained, often armed, and regularly engage in target practice at shooting ranges.

Many of them have military experience, such as in the Army, Air Force, or Marines, or have served as police officers. Ongoing training is crucial.

Jonathan Alvarez, CEO of PFI, recently stated to Las Vegas TV station KVVU, “Just being a veteran or having prior law enforcement experience does not automatically qualify someone to be armed and patrolling with our team at casinos.”

We ensure that we have the right team in place so that when emergencies occur, they can respond effectively and be in the right place at the right time.

The upcoming month will be particularly busy for the security firm in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is set to host the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix and the Downtown Neon City Festival. PFI will also provide security at Clark County polling sites on election day.

Even outside of special events, casinos can experience violent incidents.

Security Guard Stops Stabbing

For example, in August at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa in Summerlin, Nevada, a security guard shot a suspect who had allegedly stabbed two employees.

Shayne Sussman, 25, was arrested on multiple charges related to attempted murder with a deadly weapon, as well as battery with a deadly weapon. These charges are pending in local court.

The security guard, who remains unnamed, prevented further violence at the casino by shooting the suspect.

While rare, such incidents highlight the importance of having a well-trained and armed security force in a casino,” Alvarez explained.

PFI operates a dispatch center equipped with thermal imaging for surveillance.

“Our team is trained to identify heat signatures and zoom in, whether it’s an animal or a person,” said Alvarez. “By detecting threats early and deploying teams to secure the area, we stay ahead of the game.”

The firm also utilizes specially trained dogs, handled by experts, to detect explosives, firearms, and other dangerous items.