News Summary
Indiana authorities have filed a complaint against Protection Plus, an Indianapolis-based security firm, citing repeated violations of federal wage laws and seeking disciplinary measures. The company has faced multiple penalties for unpaid wages and civil damages, and local agencies have suspended contracts. The case raises concerns over labor practices and may impact future business and licensing decisions for Protection Plus in Indiana.
Indianapolis Takes Action Against Protection Plus Over Wage Violations
The state of Indiana has filed a complaint against Protection Plus, an Indianapolis-based security company, deeming the firm “unfit to practice” due to numerous violations of federal wage laws. The complaint was submitted by the Indiana Attorney General’s Office on October 15 and has been lodged with the Indiana State Private Investigator and Security Guard Board.
This action follows a lengthy investigation revealing that Protection Plus failed to comply with wage laws applicable under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Violations are documented during two specific time frames: from May 3, 2016, to May 2, 2018, and from May 13, 2018, to January 7, 2021. Protection Plus, which provides security personnel at major Indiana venues such as Citizens Energy, Lucas Oil Stadium, and the Indiana Convention Center, has a troubling history of wage law violations.
History of Violations and Financial Penalties
The U.S. Department of Labor has identified issues with Protection Plus’s payment practices on three occasions within five years. In 2018, the company was required to pay a total of $98,949 in overtime back wages and liquidated damages to affect 158 workers, in addition to facing a civil penalty of $25,000 for willful violations. To further compound its issues, in 2022, Protection Plus incurred additional costs totaling $370,459 in back wages and damages for 215 workers, along with a $69,540 civil penalty following a court order.
In 2024, federal authorities assessed the company $27,597 in civil money penalties for “repeat and willful violations,” citing that 31 security professionals were owed $28,334 in overtime back wages and liquidated damages. Officials have stated that Protection Plus consistently fails to adhere to federal wage laws, and the company will be held accountable for these ongoing transgressions.
Potential Consequences for Protection Plus
The Attorney General’s complaint is seeking disciplinary measures against Protection Plus from the Indiana State Private Investigator and Security Guard Board. Possible outcomes of this complaint range from a reprimand or censure to more severe actions such as suspension or revocation of the company’s license.
In response to the allegations, Protection Plus has indicated that the issues stem from “miscalculation of an overtime rate” rather than fraudulent intentions. The company currently employs over 300 civilian security guards and off-duty police officers, providing part-time work opportunities.
Community Actions and Concerns
Concerns regarding Protection Plus have also been voiced by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1, which filed a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office in 2023. Although SEIU Local 1 does not represent Protection Plus as it is a non-unionized company, the union has raised concerns about the practices followed by Protection Plus. Support donations for the complaint against the company have described its operations as “questionable,” advocating for the revocation of Protection Plus’ security guard license.
As a result of the ongoing investigations and the filing of complaints, the City of Indianapolis has suspended Protection Plus from city work for a period of six months. This was prompted by the company’s failure to disclose past federal investigation results. Multiple local agencies, including the Marion County Public Health Department, have ceased using Protection Plus for their security needs.
Future Contracts and Local Reactions
The Capital Improvement Board (CIB), responsible for managing Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indiana Convention Center, currently contracts Protection Plus. However, there is significant discussion among board members to terminate this contract ahead of its scheduled expiration on April 11, 2027. Meanwhile, Citizens Energy plans to continue its contract with Protection Plus until the end of the year while they explore options for a new vendor.
As the complaint progresses, the outcome could have significant implications for the future of Protection Plus in the Indiana security landscape and its relationship with local government contracts.
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- WRTV: City Suspends Security Company for 6 Months
- Wikipedia: Indiana
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
