Keisha Benford

The Office of Security Contracts (OSC) Procurements serves as the primary contracting authority for the U.S. Marshals Service under the Department of Justice, responsible for acquiring mission-critical security services and infrastructure to safeguard federal judicial proceedings. This role oversees the full lifecycle of procurements for protective personnel, surveillance systems, court security equipment, and operational support services essential to the safety of judges, witnesses, and federal court facilities. OSC Procurements manages complex, high-stakes acquisitions aligned with federal security standards, ensuring compliance with FAR and DOJ-specific protocols while maintaining operational readiness across the national judicial system. OSC Procurements engages with a broad base of qualified vendors specializing in physical security, surveillance technology, and facility support services. While no single contractor dominates the award landscape, the office maintains consistent partnerships with firms capable of delivering scalable, nationwide security operations and integrated protection systems. Vendor relationships are characterized by performance-based contracting, strict compliance monitoring, and a preference for contractors with demonstrated experience in federal judicial environments and secure facility operations. The office exhibits a strong preference for open competition, with 93.9% of acquisitions conducted without set-asides, reflecting the mission-critical and specialized nature of its requirements. Nevertheless, it maintains a measurable commitment to small business participation, allocating approximately 4.5% of awards to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5 and 1.5% to 8(a) competed contracts, demonstrating a balanced approach that prioritizes capability while supporting socioeconomic goals. OSC Procurements primarily focuses on NAICS 561621 (Security Systems Services) and 561612 (Security Guards and Patrol Services), reflecting its core need for integrated protective services and electronic surveillance infrastructure. Additional procurement activity includes commercial machinery maintenance (811310) and specialized detection and navigation systems (334511), underscoring expertise in securing court facilities through layered physical and technological defenses. The office’s technical domain centers on law enforcement-grade security solutions, risk mitigation systems, and resilient operational support tailored to federal judicial environments.