Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 648 - PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS, PRIVATE PATROL OFFICERS, POLYGRAPHIC EXAMINERS, PROCESS SERVERS, REPOSSESSORS AND DOG HANDLERS

27 Jun 2025 --
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Overview of NAC Chapter 648

Chapter 648 regulates licensing, training, and conduct standards for the above professions. Key points include:

Licensing Requirements

Applicants must meet experience, education, and background check requirements.

Certain crimes, such as felonies involving dishonesty, can disqualify applicants.

Training Requirements

Private patrol officers, for example, must complete a minimum number of training hours.

Dog handlers must demonstrate proficiency in handling and controlling dogs.

Conduct and Ethics

Professionals must follow state laws and ethical guidelines.

Misconduct or criminal behavior can lead to suspension or revocation of licenses.

Record-Keeping

Licensees must maintain accurate records of investigations, security patrols, or other activities.

Enforcement and Penalties

The state can investigate complaints, impose fines, suspend or revoke licenses, and pursue legal action for violations.

Detailed Case Examples

Case 1: Private Investigator Fails Background Check

Scenario: John applied for a private investigator license but failed the criminal background check because of a past felony involving fraud.

NAC Application: According to NAC 648.050, anyone convicted of a felony involving dishonesty may be denied a license.

Outcome: The Board denied John’s license application. He could appeal after demonstrating rehabilitation, but initially, NAC protects the public from individuals with a history of dishonest behavior.

Case 2: Private Patrol Officer Uses Excessive Force

Scenario: Maria, a licensed private patrol officer, restrained a trespasser using aggressive physical methods beyond what her training permitted.

NAC Application: NAC 648.390 outlines that private patrol officers must use reasonable force and follow legal guidelines.

Outcome: The Board investigated and temporarily suspended her license. She was required to undergo retraining on the proper use of force before reinstatement.

Case 3: Polygraph Examiner Falsifies Results

Scenario: A polygraph examiner submitted manipulated test results in a divorce case.

NAC Application: NAC 648.450 emphasizes integrity and accurate reporting. Licensees must maintain truthful records and not deceive clients or courts.

Outcome: The Board revoked the examiner’s license, and he faced civil liability for damages caused by falsifying results.

Case 4: Process Server Fails to Serve Legal Documents

Scenario: David, a licensed process server, repeatedly failed to deliver summonses on time, causing court delays.

NAC Application: NAC 648.500 requires process servers to serve legal documents efficiently and keep accurate records.

Outcome: David received fines, was placed on probation, and required to retrain. Repeated failures could have led to revocation.

Case 5: Dog Handler Neglects Safety Protocols

Scenario: A licensed dog handler allowed a guard dog to attack a bystander, violating safety procedures.

NAC Application: NAC 648.610 states that dog handlers must control animals at all times and prevent injury to the public.

Outcome: The license was suspended, and the handler had to demonstrate compliance with safety protocols before reinstatement.

Case 6: Repossessor Uses Unauthorized Tactics

Scenario: A repossessor entered private property without proper notice to seize a vehicle.

NAC Application: NAC 648.680 requires repossessors to follow legal procedures and respect property rights.

Outcome: The repossessor faced license suspension and civil liability for trespass. This case highlights the importance of following strict procedural rules.