If an ACO knowingly installs a defective alarm system, what might the monetary punishment be?

• A. First violation: $1000; subsequent: not less than $2500 nor more than $5000
• B. $1000 only, regardless of repetition
• C. A fine of $500 for first offense and $1000 for subsequent
• D. No monetary punishment specified

Answer: (C)

When regulating alarm company operators, penalties for knowingly installing a defective system are civil fines that escalate with repeat offenses. The best answer reflects a schedule where the first offense carries a smaller fine, and subsequent offenses carry a higher fine to deter repeat violations. In this case, the first offense is fined at $500, with $1000 for each subsequent offense. This structure aligns with enforcing compliance: it signals a penalty for a careless or intentional violation, but strengthens the consequence if the behavior repeats. The other options don’t fit that escalating pattern or deny monetary penalties, which is why they’re not correct.