PSPLA has revoked Marcus Gardner Certificate

25.01.2025

Article
The Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority (PSPLA) has revoked Marcus Gardner's Certificate of Approval (COA) as a security worker following multiple dishonesty convictions and driving offenses. The decision, dated January 17, 2025, comes after a formal complaint by the New Zealand Police under the Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Act 2010 (PSPPI Act).

Mr. Gardner, who was granted his COA in January 2022, has since been convicted of three dishonesty offenses in 2023, which involve breaches of trust, including falsifying bank records. He also has two recent convictions for driving while disqualified or with a suspended license. These actions were deemed grounds for disqualification under Section 62 of the PSPPI Act, which mandates the cancellation of a COA unless a waiver is granted.

Despite the serious nature of the complaint, Mr. Gardner did not attend the hearing or respond to the allegations. Evidence presented to the Authority revealed that some of his offending was tied to drug-related debts, further raising concerns about his suitability for the security industry. In issuing the decision, Licensing Authority P.A. McConnell stated that the frequency and nature of Mr. Gardner’s offenses rendered him unsuitable to continue working in the security field. The cancellation of his COA is effective immediately.

The case highlights the stringent standards required for security personnel and the importance of maintaining public trust in the profession. For more details, this decision can be reviewed in the official ruling from the PSPLA, dated January 17, 2025.