Mission and Core Values
Our Mission
At Elite Defenders, our mission is to deliver elite, adaptable, and technology-driven security services that exceed industry standards. We empower corporate clients, executives, and high-net-worth individuals to live, work, and travel with complete confidence, knowing their safety is protected by trusted professionals.
Our Core Values
Integrity – Acting with honor, transparency, and accountability in every detail of every operation.
Excellence – Setting the highest standards and exceeding them through advanced training, discipline, and security technology innovation.
Readiness – Remaining vigilant, proactive, and mission-ready 24/7 to respond to evolving threats.
Respect – Treating every client, property, and situation with professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality.
Service Before Self – Selecting only those with a true protector’s mindset to serve as part of our elite team.
Who We Are
Elite Defenders is a mission-driven security firm led by seasoned professionals with backgrounds in law enforcement, military, and corporate risk management. Headquartered in the Los Angeles area with branch offices in Arizona and Alaska, we provide armed and unarmed security, executive protection, and corporate security solutions nationwide.
Founded by an active law enforcement officer, Imperium was built on the vision of combining AI-driven intelligence, cybersecurity, and physical protection services to create unmatched safety outcomes. Every operation is executed with integrity, precision, and discretion, ensuring that clients receive not only protection, but peace of mind.
Vikas(Vick) Sharma
President and CEO
Vikas (Vick) Sharma is an active law enforcement agent and Executive Protection Specialist with several years of experience in law enforcement and security. Licensed for armed and unarmed security in Arizona and California, he is also a federally certified law enforcement instructor for firearms, active shooter, and emergency/tactical driving. Vick has extensive education in engineering and technology from Penn State, MIT, and business certification from Yale University. Vick is also a graduate of top schools in executive protection including both EPI and ESI, which are considered Harvard and Yale in the field of protection.
After spending 20 years in robotics overseeing the development of self-driving vehicles, Vick founded Imperium Protection Group to bring convergence to physical security, technology, and cybersecurity to redefine protection. He oversees the firm’s multi-state operations and leads the cybersecurity division.
Richard Labahn
Chief Security Officer
Richard is a highly experienced law enforcement professional with 27 years of dedicated service, specializing in public safety, crisis management, and investigations. Throughout their distinguished career, Richard held key positions in various law enforcement capacities, demonstrating expertise in strategic leadership, threat assessment, and emergency response. Following his retirement from law enforcement, Richard transitioned into executive protection after attending the esteemed Executive Protection Program at EPI, West Virginia. Skilled in risk management and threat mitigation, Richard has successfully ensured the safety of high-profile individuals in diverse and challenging environments worldwide. His extensive professional experience, combined with specialized training and a deep understanding of security dynamics, makes him a trusted and reliable leader in the field of executive protection.
Omar S. Matos,
Head of Alaska Operations
Omar S. Matos Cortes is a seasoned security professional with 14 years in the Alaska Army National Guard, including 8 years as a Military Police officer at the Missile Defense Base in Fort Greely and 6 years as an Infantryman. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Strategic Security and Protection Management and is a certified Personal Protection Specialist. Omar is also a Certified Police Instructor, Tactical Weapons Instructor, and expert in active shooter response and drug investigations. He previously owned Dynamic Tactical Concepts, training military and law enforcement personnel across Alaska. He is a certified pilot and highly experienced in managing security details in the Alaskan wilderness.
Rocky Nguyen
Head of Operations, California
Rocky Nguyen is a retired US Army veteran and protection agent with over 10 years of experience in overseeing high-profile event security, estate security, surveillance, and risk management for high-net-worth clients. Trained at the top protection academy, Gavin DeBecker and Associates, he ensures safety for clients at major events, including the NFL Training Camp. Rocky holds an exposed firearms permit, and CCW permit, and is certified in Advanced and Basic Life Support. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and IT to support cybersecurity functions for the firm.
John Holland
Head of Training and Development
John Holland is a seasoned security and investigative professional with extensive experience in law enforcement and private-sector security. He holds multiple certifications from the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), including Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Certificates, as well as a POST Background Investigator Certificate. John is a licensed Private Investigator and PPO/PI Qualified Manager in California, further underscoring his expertise in the field.
In addition to his law enforcement background, John has successfully managed security operations for a range of clients, including educational institutions and government contracts. John is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Defense Investigators Association and the California Association of Training Officers. His commitment to safety and excellence in training makes him a trusted expert in the field of security and investigations, dedicated to protecting individuals and assets in challenging environments.
What Our Clients Say
Your Security, Our Priority—In Their Words
“I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding security services provided by Vick and his team during the hurricane Helene recovery. We had significant concerns about the safety of our property and personnel during such a chaotic time. From our first interaction, the professionalism and expertise of their team were evident. They quickly assessed our needs and implemented a comprehensive security plan, ensuring our store and assets were protected throughout the recovery process. Their personnel were not only highly trained and vigilant but also courteous and respectful, making us feel secure and valued. Thanks to a Imperium Protection Group team, we could focus on rebuilding and recovery without the constant worry about our safety. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone in need of reliable security solutions.”
FEMA, Florida
I am writing to express our sincere appreciation for the exceptional security services provided by Vick and team during the recent protests. In a challenging and dynamic environment, their professionalism and expertise were invaluable to us. From the outset, Vick conducted a thorough assessment of the situation and developed a tailored security plan that effectively addressed our unique needs. Their personnel were not only highly trained and vigilant but also displayed a respectful demeanor, ensuring a secure atmosphere. Throughout the protests, the security team demonstrated remarkable situational awareness and responsiveness, allowing our staff and congregants to focus on our activities without concern for safety. Their presence provided us with much-needed reassurance during a potentially volatile situation. If you are looking for a highly skilled security team with wide ranging skills, look no further.
We are pleased to recommend Vick for his exceptional security services provided at our school and temple. Their team demonstrated a high level of professionalism, expertise, and dedication to ensuring the safety of our students, staff, and visitors. Their presence on campus significantly enhanced our sense of security, allowing our educators and students to focus on learning without distraction. Their proactive communication with our administration further contributed to a seamless partnership. We are grateful for their services and highly recommend Imperium Protection Group Innovations to any educational institution seeking reliable and professional security services.
Scottsdale, AZ
We seamlessly blend physical security with cutting-edge digital protection. Our team offers comprehensive solutions, safeguarding your assets both on the ground and in the cloud-ensuring your safety and privacy
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in your environment, whether it’s your home, business, or community. With a dedication to excellence and a commitment to protecting what matters most,
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