If a person without a PPO license offers security services, what type of crime have they committed?

A person without a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) license who offers security services is committing a misdemeanor violation. Under California law, specifically the Business and Professions Code, engaging in security services without the proper licensing is considered a misdemeanor due to the potential risk it poses to public safety and the integrity of the security industry.

Misdemeanors are typically less severe than felonies but more serious than infractions, and they often carry penalties such as fines and possible jail time. The requirement for a PPO license exists to ensure that those providing security services meet certain training and regulatory standards, which helps to safeguard the public from untrained or unqualified individuals. Therefore, by operating as a security service without this necessary licensure, the individual is committing a misdemeanor violation.

Other options like felony violations typically involve more severe criminal actions with harsher penalties, while infractions are minor offenses that generally result in fines without incarceration. Citational offenses usually pertain to specific local violations that can also be cited but do not carry the same level of accountability as a misdemeanor violation in this context.