Tennessee officials have increased penalties against Nashville-based security company Solaren Risk Management, fining the company $118,000 and suspending its license for 30 days after investigators found guards posing as police officers.
The updated order from the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance overturned parts of an earlier ruling and found Solaren used security guards wearing “police” identifiers, despite not being certified law enforcement. Investigators also said some guards were not properly registered with the state’s Private Protective Services program.
The case stems from allegations that Solaren employees wore police-style patches and uniforms while working private security jobs in Nashville. Investigators found several guards had no active law enforcement affiliation, while others admitted they felt pressured to wear the patches because it made the company appear more credible to clients.
State officials also raised concerns over Solaren vehicles equipped with red and blue emergency-style lights, saying they created confusion and posed a risk to public safety.
Solaren CEO Jack Byrd III said the company plans to challenge the ruling in Davidson County Chancery Court. The company now faces 59 proven violations, court costs, and a possible immediate suspension unless the order is stayed within seven days.