Latest research from Dr Diarmaid Harkin (w/ Dr Kate Fitz-Gibbon) “Private Security Companies and Domestic Violence: A Welcome New Development?”
Dr Diarmaid Harkin
Deakin criminologist, Dr Diarmaid Harkin has published his latest research in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Co-authored with Dr Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Monash University, their article looks at the recent emergence of private security companies working with victims of family violence. Entitled ‘Private Security Companies and Domestic Violence: A Welcome New Development?’ their paper considers the potential advantages and risks of commercial security companies entering into this territory.
Abstract:
Due to the poor reputation of the private security industry and the multiple lines of concerns raised by scholars over the potentially corrosive costs of commercial security provision, it is important to consider whether for-profit companies are a welcome addition to the network of actors who respond to the needs of domestic violence victims. Using the case study of ‘Protective Services’ in Victoria, Australia, who appear to be one of the first known instances of a private security company offering services to victims of domestic violence, we argue that there may be advantages for victims engaging with commercial providers and reasons for optimism that commercial outfits can improve feelings of safety for a particularly vulnerable and under-protected population.