Audit Finds Failures within Contracted Security at Orange County Corrections Facilities

Article Originally Published Here

An audit by the Orange County Comptroller revealed significant issues with Allied Universal Security Services, a company contracted to provide security at various county facilities, including corrections centers.

Key Findings:

1. Training and Hiring Compliance Issues: The audit highlighted that training for security guards was not completed on time, and new hire requirements were not fully met before guards began working.
2. Staffing Shortfalls: At the Juvenile Assessment Center, there were instances where the staffing requirements, such as the presence of at least one female security guard, were not met.
3. Irregularities in Staffing and Duties: The audit found discrepancies, such as a guard reportedly working in two locations simultaneously and another guard working in an armed role without a firearms license.

Company and County Response:

Allied Universal Security Services acknowledged the audit’s findings and expressed agreement. Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond emphasized the importance of resolving these issues to ensure optimal safety and security at the facilities. The county is currently reviewing the report and will decide how to proceed.