Atlantic Protective Services was founded in 1982 as a security guard services company in the Tidewater area, providing both armed and unarmed security officers. The company remained localized in Tidewater, building an enviable reputation for high-quality, reliable service. In 1988, APS began security services outside the Commonwealth of Virginia , and over the years has provided service in North Carolina , Massachusetts , West Virginia , and the District of Columbia , just to name a few areas.