The First Law by John Lescroart

Title: The First Law
Author: John Lescroart
Publication: Signet, paperback, first published in 2003
Genre: Mystery/Suspense

Description: There is a neighborhood in San Francisco that uses a security firm called Patrol Specials to protect private businesses. When Sam Silverman, an elderly pawnshop owner, can no longer afford its rates, he turns down the protection and hopes for the best, then is murdered during an apparent robbery.