The Risk Pool occasionally receives inquiries from city officials asking if coverage extends to police officers that work “off duty” as security guards. Allowing police officers to moonlight as security guards has both benefits and risks for cities. The primary benefit to the city is the increased police presence throughout the community – at no expense to the city. The downside is that allowing officers to engage in security work increases the likelihood they will be required to respond to a crime while off duty.
Members need to understand the law enforcement liability and workers’ compensation coverage implications if their officers are involved in an off-duty incident.
Members can learn more about the legal and coverage considerations for law enforcement “off duty” employment in an excerpt from a Membership Matters article here.