02/25/2025

My Journey from Presidential Protection to Private Security

After 25 years with the United States Secret Service, I’ve learned that effective security comes from understanding both the threat and the individual being protected. As the founder of Sentinel Protection Solutions, I apply this philosophy to help clients navigate today’s complex security challenges.

My Path to Protection

My career in law enforcement began in 1993 as a police officer with the Atlanta Police Department after earning a criminology degree from Florida State University. After three years with the department, I joined the United States Secret Service in 1996, starting in Miami before moving to West Palm Beach and eventually Washington, DC.

During my tenure with the Secret Service, I served for nearly a decade on two presidential details, protecting Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Under President Obama, I also supervised security for Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett. My career included two years at Secret Service headquarters where I managed continuity of operations and government programs.

In my final seven years with the agency, I led the Atlanta Field Office’s Electronic Crimes Task Force, overseeing a talented team responding to cyber threats such as ransomware and business email compromises. I directing cyber investigations and coordinating with law enforcement and private sector partners to mitigate threats.

Creating Sentinel Protection Solutions

After retiring from the Secret Service in June 2021, I transitioned to private security consulting, advising high-net-worth families, family offices, and wealth management firms. In July 2024, I launched Sentinel Protection Solutions to provide customized security solutions for clients seeking to establish or enhance their executive protection programs.

What sets my approach apart is the integration of government expertise with private sector experience across industries such as healthcare, banking, manufacturing, and family offices. I’ve protected everyone from U.S. presidents to retired couples, giving me a deep understanding of how security needs vary across different environments.

A Collaborative Approach to Security

When clients ask about my working style, I emphasize collaboration and a commitment to understanding their unique concerns. Security is deeply personal, and effective solutions stem from listening first and acting second.

Rather than applying cookie-cutter security measures, I develop practical, prevention-based strategies tailored to my clients’ lifestyles. Drawing from my years with the Secret Service and private industry, I focus on anticipating and mitigating threats before they materialize. My approach continuously evolves to adapt to shifting risks—whether due to family dynamics, business growth, or emerging security challenges.

Building Long-Term Partnerships

More than just solving problems, I strive to be a trusted security partner for my clients. Security is not a one-time fix; it requires ongoing assessment and adaptation. As my clients’ needs evolve—whether their business expands, their family grows, or new threats emerge—I refine and adjust security protocols accordingly.

Transitioning from presidential protection to private security has strengthened my ability to apply sophisticated protective strategies to diverse and evolving situations. My philosophy centers on building long-term relationships based on trust, discretion, and shared security objectives.

Custom Security Solutions for Each Client

The most rewarding part of my job is the opportunity to solve unique security challenges for each client. There are no one-size-fits-all solutions—every security plan is designed to align with an individual’s lifestyle, concerns, and priorities. I enjoy the creative challenge of developing strategies that are both effective and minimally intrusive, ensuring my clients feel safe without disrupting how they live and work. 

For me, success means delivering peace of mind through thoughtful, proactive security measures tailored to each client’s unique needs and environment.

Get in touch today to discuss how I can help strengthen your security.

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Ready to protect what matters most? Schedule a confidential consultation with Marc to discuss your security needs and discover how Sentinel Protection Solutions can safeguard your future.

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