northeast Protective Services
Los Angeles CA
June 6, 2019
We have been fortunate to partner with Aaron Hopper and First Priority Services in New York. First Priority is extremely professional, reliable, highly adaptable and flexible. They have been able to adjust to last-minute changes and unique situations.
First Priority has provided specialized security for many major events, including corporate events, and premiers attended by corporate studio executives, board members, and talent.
Aaron’s hands-on approach, excellent communication and attention to detail which are the cornerstone of success, allows us to be confident that First Priority can handle any assignment and the event will go smoothly.
We confidently recommend Aaron Hopper and First Priority for your security requirements.
Sincerely,
Andrea Bellamy
Chief of Staff to Alan Burton, President
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Welcome to First Priority Security LLC, where your safety is our top priority. We take pride in delivering unmatched professionalism, trust, and experience to meet your security needs. With exceptional service and a commitment to excellence, we ensure the highest standard of care. Discover the First Priority difference today!
FIRST PRIORITY SECURITY
LICENSED
BONDED
INSURED
Meet the Team
President & Chief Executive Officer – Aaron Hooper
Aaron Hooper is a highly skilled and extensively trained security professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry. He began his career as a security officer at the Empire State Building, where his sharp instincts, attention to detail, and quick response in apprehending a notorious robber earned him a commendation.
As a former NYPD Gang Unit School Safety Officer, Aaron played a pivotal role in helping high school students transition out of gang life. He also contributed to post-9/11 security efforts by safeguarding critical infrastructure, including bridges and synagogues.
Transitioning to the private sector, Aaron specialized in executive protection, securing high-profile clients and preventing piracy at Lions Gate Entertainment. His expertise and reputation for discretion and reliability have made him a trusted security professional for A-list celebrities and VIPs.
Aaron’s security experience extends to television production, where he has provided protection for hosts and talent on The Tyra Banks Show, Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘N’ Out, Judge Hatchett, Joking Off, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, and most notably, The Bill Cunningham Show. His reputation as a top-tier security professional has also led him to oversee security at NYC’s premier nightclubs, including Level V, Buddha Bar, Ten June, Gaslight, 1OAK, and Avenue, where he served as Director of Security for four years.
Aaron holds a degree in Computer Information Systems and is certified in Bio and Counter-Terrorism. He also has FEMA certifications in Active Shooter Response, Mass Casualty Incidents, Emergency Planning, Workplace Security, and over 15 additional security-related certifications.
With his extensive expertise, leadership, and commitment to safety, Aaron continues to set the highest standard in security services at First Priority Security LLC.
Chief Executive Officer - James Allen
James Allen brings a decade of experience in the security industry, specializing in loss prevention for some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and Hugo Boss.
Expanding his expertise, James transitioned into nightlife security, protecting patrons at renowned NYC venues such as Silhouette, Empire, and Avenue. His outstanding performance in these high-profile settings led to opportunities in the entertainment industry, where he provided security for the sets of VH1’s top reality shows Love & Hip Hop, Black Ink Crew, and The Breaks. Additionally, he safeguarded talent and production teams for truTV’s Emmy-nominated Billy on the Street and the culinary hit Bobby Flay.
Beyond venue and production security, James has provided executive protection for prominent celebrities, ensuring their safety in high-pressure environments. His extensive experience makes him highly skilled in client communication, conflict resolution, and crisis management—delivering top-tier security solutions with professionalism and discretion.
Vice President – Joseph (Joe) Cooper
With over 20 years of experience in the security industry, Joseph (Joe) Cooper has built a distinguished career in executive protection and large-scale security operations. As Vice President of First Priority Security LLC, Joe brings exceptional leadership, operational expertise, and a strategic approach to security management. He is highly skilled in assessing existing security systems and implementing effective solutions, ensuring top-tier protection for clients.
Joe has extensive experience safeguarding VIPs and celebrities, providing executive protection for talent and production teams on major television shows, including Chopped, Beat Bobby Flay, Joking Off, and Ice Loves Coco. Additionally, he has earned a strong reputation for securing high-profile NYC nightlife venues, including Lavo, Avenue, Tao, and Marquee.
Beyond his security career, Joe is an avid diver, fitness enthusiast, and nature advocate. He serves as a research diver at the New York City Aquarium and holds a degree in criminal justice, further solidifying his expertise in law enforcement and security.
With his extensive background and commitment to excellence, Joe plays a key role in shaping First Priority Security LLC’s success and delivering unmatched protection to clients.
Chief Operating Officer – DeLeon J. Barney
DeLeon J. Barney, a U.S. Army veteran, brings over a decade of expertise in the security industry. Specializing in retail safety, executive protection for special events, crowd control, and loss prevention, he has built a distinguished career in security operations.
During his tenure in retail security, DeLeon earned recognition as one of the top five arresting detectives in the New York region and held the record for the highest number of arrests in a single year. His keen eye for security threats and commitment to safety have made him a leader in the field.
As a licensed NYC Fire Guard, DeLeon has secured high-profile buildings for one of Brooklyn’s top real estate development firms. His in-depth knowledge of New York Fire Department (NYFD) regulations and safety codes ensures compliance and risk mitigation in complex security environments. Additionally, he has played a key role in training new security personnel, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to uphold safety standards and protocols.
With his military background, leadership experience, and extensive security expertise, DeLeon is dedicated to delivering top-tier protection and operational excellence at First Priority Security LLC.