Security Guard

[Drac]

Not too long ago someone said to me that cops hate security guards, and that is a lie as I use to be one..Cops rely on local security to be our eyes and ears and if impowered by the law to make arrests and hold some jerk until we arrive..What we HATE is a security guards that THINK they know our job and attempt to tell us how to do it..Yes, you have had training,but the max I think was 210 hrs versus our 400 and some hrs of academy training..

I use worked security for a large hotel that was less than a block from I-90,the locals were not too friendly..Well about 4 in the morning I see a local make a traffic stop on the main drag, vehicle was occupied x 4...I roll over and exit my vehicle so the cop and the suspects can see me..He issues a cite and the vehicle leaves I return to the from of the hotel and bump into the cop that just made the stop.."Why you roll up on me?, he asks.."One car, 4 subjects and one cop" was my response..

He said thanks and after that I noticed a change when I had to call the locals for help..I was later told that the dispatcher would ask " Which guard was requesting help?" and the hotel would say "Drac" they would always send at least 2 units..They figured when I called it was something serious...So if there are any security guards out there reading this I hope you understand that you are not hated, your assistance is needed, necessary and appreciated, by me at least...

[KenpoTex]

FWIW, I've dealt with cops that were great and I've dealt with some that obviously (as evidenced by their words and attitudes) looked down their nose at the "lowly security guard" who called them. However, to be fair to the latter bunch, I can see why they get this way as most of the security companies around here are staffed by LCD types.

[seasoned]

Not too long ago someone said to me that cops hate security guards, and that is a lie as I use to be one..Cops rely on local security to be our eyes and ears and if impowered by the law to make arrests and hold some jerk until we arrive..What we HATE is a security guards that THINK they know our job and attempt to tell us how to do it..Yes, you have had training,but the max I think was 210 hrs versus our 400 and some hrs of academy training..

I use worked security for a large hotel that was less than a block from I-90,the locals were not too friendly..Well about 4 in the morning I see a local make a traffic stop on the main drag, vehicle was occupied x 4...I roll over and exit my vehicle so the cop and the suspects can see me..He issues a cite and the vehicle leaves I return to the from of the hotel and bump into the cop that just made the stop.."Why you roll up on me?, he asks.."One car, 4 subjects and one cop" was my response..

He said thanks and after that I noticed a change when I had to call the locals for help..I was later told that the dispatcher would ask " Which guard was requesting help?" and the hotel would say "Drac" they would always send at least 2 units..They figured when I called it was something serious...So if there are any security guards out there reading this I hope you understand that you are not hated, your assistance is needed, necessary and appreciated, by me at least...

As a part time Constable, I work town court security, and some high school sports and dance events. On a whole any interaction I have had with local LE, has been positive. There are a few of the younger officers that seem to have an attitude for some unknown reason. I respect their, and your position very much, as being on the front lines, so to speck. But from my perspective, if I am carrying a firing arm that I qualify for yearly and have the powers of arrest while on duty, why do some look at it as being a wannabe. This is a point I have wanted to bring up in the past, but did not know how to approach it. In NY State a constable is a peace officer, with special powers, granted by any local town government.

[Drac]

There are a few of the younger officers that seem to have an attitude for some unknown reason.

That's called " rookie-itist"..They graduated the academy, did their time with an FTO and now they are on their own..In their opinion no one else is a cop except those they work with or that works other departments..


I respect their, and your position very much, as being on the front lines, so to speck. But from my perspective, if I am carrying a firing arm that I qualify for yearly and have the powers of arrest while on duty, why do some look at it as being a wannabe.


This is a point I have wanted to bring up in the past, but did not know how to approach it. In NY State a constable is a peace officer, with special powers, granted by any local town government.

In their minds if ya wanna carry a badge and wear a gun you have to be a cop..I have been accused of being a wannabe MANY TIMES...If you wana blame someone , blame the companies that will hire any warm body and dress them in a uniform..

[seasoned]

That's called " rookie-itist"..They graduated the academy, did their time with an FTO and now they are on their own..No one is a cop except those they work with or that works other departments..



In their minds if ya wanna carry a badge and wear a gun you have to be a cop..I have been accused of being a wannabe MANY TIMES...If you wana blame someone , blame the companies that will hire any warm body and dress them in a uniform..
Points well taken, thanks for the input. Funny thing is if something goes down the wannabes and the cops all look the same to the bad guys. Stay safe. :asian:

[MA-Caver]

I used to work as security at Dallas' Love Field Airport years ago... I mean years ago okay. Never once did I have the illusion that I was something special or even a bad ass. Hell, wasn't armed and basically I just made sure folks didn't walk off with the wrong bag at the baggage claim. Occasionally I worked the x-ray machine and caught a test weapon going by and was given a nice pat on the back (whoopie) but that was all.

Some security guards do over do it in their zealousness but most have a job to do and a good percentage do it well enough. I give them as much respect as I would an LEO, knowing, as Drac said, a large percentage have LEO academy training and are moonlighting LEO's... even if they're unarmed because it's company policy.

Security guard is a risk job... depending upon what you're securing. Give 'em respect anyway... chances are they'll respect you back.

[jks9199]

I worked as a retail loss prevention agent, a security guard (proprietary and contract), and in program security management prior to becoming a cop. I'd better not have anything against security folk as a class! Before I go any further, I want to make it clear that security professionals serve a lot of very important roles in protecting individuals, businesses, and even society, and are an essential component in the public safety continuum.

I've found that there are something like 3 or 4 categories of security guards. There is some overlap.

At the top of the scale is the true security professional. This is the person who's made security work their career. They know their job, they know where they fit in the scheme of things -- both with LE and with their clients. They're easy for cops to work with. They call cops when it's appropriate, are ready with the right information -- and they don't call when cops can't do anything. Most of these folks don't want to become cops; they may have been cops before, or they just don't want to be a cop for whatever reason.

Just below the pros are folks that are simply doing a job. They need a paycheck, the hours are right, or whatever. It's a job, and it meets their needs. They're going to do it to the best of their ability, and are sincere about it. (Like I said; there's overlap.) They may want to become a cop -- or not. At the bottom of this group, just before the screwballs start, are the overzealous types who run around kind of like Barney Fife... They mean well, but they're dialing 911 for a guy drinking in public or daring to sit in a parked car, on private property, without a driver's license...

Below these folks are when we start getting into the screwier and scarier folks. There are the "wanna be and might someday be" folks who just need some maturity or life experience before they'd be good cops (and maybe oughta enlist). And there are the "wanna-be/never-gonna-be" types who just plain have a screw or 12 loose. These are the losers who figure their mall security badge makes them "almost as good as a cop", and will flash that badge at the drop of a hat... Or the "mall ninjas (http://lonelymachines.org/mall-ninjas/)" that are just plain scary!

[Jade Tigress]

"mall ninjas (http://lonelymachines.org/mall-ninjas/)"

:lfao:

OMG! That was HILARIOUS!!!!

[Kreth]

I find the loss prevention guys annoying. They often target me because of my long hair and tattoos. Depending on my mood, I'll either flat out confront them ("Dude, you've followed me around to 6 different departments and all you did was change your jacket. Give it up.") or have some fun doing stuff like checking out lingerie...

[Guardian]

I find the loss prevention guys annoying. They often target me because of my long hair and tattoos. Depending on my mood, I'll either flat out confront them ("Dude, you've followed me around to 6 different departments and all you did was change your jacket. Give it up.") or have some fun doing stuff like checking out lingerie...

My brother use to have trouble like this and he did the same things LOL. He had long hair and tatoos and he was targetted all the time for it. His hair is shorter now, but the tatoos are the same.

[bigdano]

I'm a bouncer in Washington, DC, and I have had about 99% good experiences with local PD. We go out of our way to let the beat cops know that we are not a bunch of knuckleheads, and they are very quick to respond when we need them, and usually ignore an ejected former customer who complains that we roughed him up. Our policy here on escorting people out of the bar is that we only use as much force as the person requires us to. 99% of the time, that is no force at all.

[Nolerama]

I find the loss prevention guys annoying. They often target me because of my long hair and tattoos. Depending on my mood, I'll either flat out confront them ("Dude, you've followed me around to 6 different departments and all you did was change your jacket. Give it up.") or have some fun doing stuff like checking out lingerie...

That reminds me of a profiling experiment I did for a high school class.

Materials:
1 punk rock skater w/ baggy jeans and a chain wallet (Me, I'm also Asian, brown and kinda mouthy)

1 traditionally preppie Caucasian friend, that dressed like the rest of the herd (Ambercrombie Army, etc)

At least 3 department store security agents within sight.

1 Explanation of said experiment signed by parents and teachers.

Process:

We would both start off in the generally same area on a far end of the store. Then we would both jog to the other end of the store, intersecting at least once en route to the exit.

I hypothesized that since I fit a certain profile, I would be chased by more security guards. I was right. About 75% of all security guards chased/apprehended me as a result. Actually, I was the only one ever detained. My friend was let go every time after showing the waiver, and contacting parents.

We did this in 10 area malls over the course of a semester and got an A.

[Darksoul]

Drac,

-I want to say thankyou for this thread. I've been working contract security for 10 years now and its an abysmal field of employment. I've never once had a problem with LEOs when they became involved wherever I was working. I've been a patrol driver for half the time, and while most cops ignore me as I drive by, the occasional one does wave, and once in a while, one will strike up a conversation. No big deal to me. Generally when I'm at work, I like to be left alone.

-Security is one of the fastest growing fields, from having a lobby officer to IT Network Security. So many people out there have no idea, but many preconcieved notions about those working security. Too many movies, too many bad experiences and stereotypes. Typically, overweight white guy with his shirt untucked, unshaven, jelly donut stain, white powder around the mouth, no tie, yada yada.

-Most of the people I have worked with have been quite professional. I have also worked with people who should've never been hired in the first place. Some real wackjobs out there. I've seen some really stupid things from some coworkers. However, that is the way a lot of security is run. A warm body in a uniform is correct. For a nice low wage.

-Most security jobs pay very low wages, somewhere around $10 an hour. I believe that security is a field like many others, where the companies prefer to not re-invest in their employees, or standard of living raises. I make 12/hour working long night shifts. And yet, the price of living keeps going up. I certainly don't live beyond my means and its a struggle.

-I really don't like working security; on a personal note, I simply have not found a calling since I graduated college. And I suppose security is looked at as unskilled labor. In most cases, that is true. How much skilled labor is left in this country? I could go armed, but most security officers who are make little more than I do.

-There is a new movie coming out with Kevin James called Paul Blart Mall Cop. I know its a comedy but it still reinforces the stereotypes. People don't understand. Security officers are not there just because something is happening, but also in case something happens. Many are trained as first responders. In some ways no different than a knight guarding his king's castle.

-Rambling now...again, thanks.

Andrew

[Joab]

I worked as a security guard for over 14 years and almost never called the police. The main reason was they almost never came, even when guys were spotted shooting heroin. They wouldn't come when a $5,000 computer was stolen, just took the serial number over the phone, even though there were clearly good fingerprints on the window the thief jimmied and they were informed of that. They did get on the scene fast when a guy was breaking out windows and stealing everything in cars, that's about it. But would never come if the car had been broken into and the perpetrator was long gone, only when the crime was in progress. The police in that particular city seemed to enjoy donuts and coffee and had little time to enforce the law.

I wasn't a cop wannabee, I worked in security to get out of telemarketing, which I hated, likely the most thankless job on earth. I was just doing my job, that's all, knowing I was helping some, but not all that much, you can't be everywhere at once.

[Drac]

tSecurity is the necessary evil to most places, it is a sometimes thankless job but it beats flipping burgers at Mickey D's...I have seen companies that were as professional looking and acting as any police dept and I have seen the type that Hollywood shows...

Once the local boys learned that I wasn't an ******* wanna-be I was treated OK..My boss had an account with one of Leona Helmsley's hotels and she always backed us...Most of the flack I ever got came from the hotel's employees..There was a fight in progress as the front desk once and I ran to break it up, I later got a ration of crap from one of the waitresses because worried the diners by running..

[Joab]

Hi Drac, it was telemarketing I was referring to as a thankless job, not security. And yes, security work beats flipping burgers. My point was that the police in the city I worked in were not particularly interested in enforcing the law unless a crime was in progress, but they certainly liked eating their donuts and drinking their coffee.

I worked for a number of security companies, one was very professional, the others less than. Some would hire any warm body that could pass the background check, one only hired 20% of applicants and paid the best with the best benefits in the area. You get what you pay for...if your lucky!

[sgtmac_46]

I'm a bouncer in Washington, DC, and I have had about 99% good experiences with local PD. We go out of our way to let the beat cops know that we are not a bunch of knuckleheads, and they are very quick to respond when we need them, and usually ignore an ejected former customer who complains that we roughed him up. Our policy here on escorting people out of the bar is that we only use as much force as the person requires us to. 99% of the time, that is no force at all.

I don't mind bouncers.....it's a tough job, and posers and nutcases don't last long.

[Drac]

Hi Drac, it was telemarketing I was referring to as a thankless job, not security. And yes, security work beats flipping burgers. My point was that the police in the city I worked in were not particularly interested in enforcing the law unless a crime was in progress, but they certainly liked eating their donuts and drinking their coffee.

Sorry, I misunderstood...I hear stories about coppers in other cities not responding to calls for service and I wonder HOW they keep their jobs, we have to respond to EVERY call...


I worked for a number of security companies, one was very professional, the others less than. Some would hire any warm body that could pass the background check, one only hired 20% of applicants and paid the best with the best benefits in the area. You get what you pay for...if your lucky!

Yep, ya get what ya pay for...

[Drac]

I don't mind bouncers.....it's a tough job, and posers and nutcases don't last long.

I was a bouncer for a few years prior to becoming a cop..At the big dance club I worked at we had off duty coppers working the door and they were cool with us..The small rock and roll bar I worked at was the fighting-est club..Whenever I had to call the locals they would send 2 or 3 cars, somebody and usually their best friends got cuffed and stuffed...

It was 50 bucks night and all you could drink and the chance to get your teeth kicked down your throat if your fighting skills were lacking....

[sgtmac_46]

I was a bouncer for a few years prior to becoming a cop..At the big dance club I worked at we had off duty coppers working the door and they were cool with us..The small rock and roll bar I worked at was the fighting-est club..Whenever I had to call the locals they would send 2 or 3 cars, somebody and usually their best friends got cuffed and stuffed...

It was 50 bucks night and all you could drink and the chance to get your teeth kicked down your throat if your fighting skills were lacking....

Yeah, bouncing is not a profession that someone can be in very long if they're a blow-hard......walking softly and carrying a BIG stick is the only way to fly on that job, so you know anyone who's done it for a while is the real deal!

[Drac]

Yeah, bouncing is not a profession that someone can be in very long if they're a blow-hard......walking softly and carrying a BIG stick is the only way to fly on that job, so you know anyone who's done it for a while is the real deal!

Amen Brother..At the end of the night after the bright lights were on I would stand on the dancefloor and tell folks in this little obscene rhyme I made up to get the **** out...After I left another fill in tried it and almost got punched out by a couple of bikers...."Drac use to say the same ****" he countered".." You aint Drac" was the response he got...

[punisher73]

I find the loss prevention guys annoying. They often target me because of my long hair and tattoos. Depending on my mood, I'll either flat out confront them ("Dude, you've followed me around to 6 different departments and all you did was change your jacket. Give it up.") or have some fun doing stuff like checking out lingerie...

I'm clean cut, and if I got to a store late at night they follow me around as well. I usually entertain myself with playing "hide and seek" with them. Just look at them and start walking really fast and then start turning down aisles. It's fun watching them try to keep up without it looking like they are following.

[Drac]

They opened up a new night club in the township and patrons were using the shopping center next door to park as they didnt wanna walk any distance..The merchants association was in a pissin contest with the the nightclub and hired a security guard to inform the folks to park in the bar lot and not centers lot..Anytime he got growled at he called the station and we had to respond, it got old real fast...

[punisher73]

I have worked with some loss prevention people in our jurisdiction and had a good relationship with them. There are some cops who look down on EVERYONE.

When I started off at the Sheriff's Dept. working in the jail (we house around 600), some local LEO's would treat us like we were nothing.

Then I got certified and went out on the road and realized that there were STILL cops that looked down on you if you didn't work "the tough spots" everyday or weren't on the SWAT team, Bomb Squad, etc.

Some people are just insecure with what they do and have to compare and try to make themselves seem better than everyone else. I wouldn't spend too much time on it though.

I also think that it is easier to work with someone in ANY profession if they know their job and how to do it well and professionally. That goes for EMTs, nurses, firefighters, security, etc. that police interact with on a daily basis.

[Drac]

There are some cops who look down on EVERYONE.

True


When I started off at the Sheriff's Dept. working in the jail (we house around 600), some local LEO's would treat us like we were nothing.

There has always been a rift between the LEO's and Sheriffs and I cannot understand why...The only one I understand is the problem between the LEO's, Sheriffs and the Highway Patrol, the OSHP will not cut ANYONE slack no matter what badge you carry


Then I got certified and went out on the road and realized that there were STILL cops that looked down on you if you didn't work "the tough spots" everyday or weren't on the SWAT team, Bomb Squad, etc.

Up here its only some SWAT department that consider themselves royality and above the rest...



Some people are just insecure with what they do and have to compare and try to make themselves seem better than everyone else. I wouldn't spend too much time on it though.

I also think that it is easier to work with someone in ANY profession if they know their job and how to do it well and professionally. That goes for EMTs, nurses, firefighters, security, etc. that police interact with on a daily basis.

I was a rent-a-cop and never made no bones about it...

[Drac]

One night while on duty at the hotel the local PD called and asked that I BOLO for a vehicle that was wanted in an armed robbery..So I am checking the lots an I see this security car from hotel down the road entering our driveway from the street...I pull my car across the drive and ask the guard what he wants, and he says he is gonna check my lot...I ask if he is armed and he says "No". "Well I am, so you're no use to me" and I tell him to get lost..He actually called the local boys and says I threw him off my lot..They laughed at him and hung up..

[punisher73]

There has always been a rift between the LEO's and Sheriffs and I cannot understand why...The only one I understand is the problem between the LEO's, Sheriffs and the Highway Patrol, the OSHP will not cut ANYONE slack no matter what badge you carry





OSHP? Ohio State Highway Patrol? I have heard that about them before. We actually had a couple transport deputies (fully marked patrol car) get pulled over in Ohio and yelled at. I was used to Michigan driving and set my cruise for 75 and was pulled over and the trooper was VERY nice and cordial and let me off with a warning when he asked about my LE background (I informed him that I was an off duty officer and had a spare magazine and handcuffs in my glovebox).

[Drac]

OSHP? Ohio State Highway Patrol? I have heard that about them before. We actually had a couple transport deputies (fully marked patrol car) get pulled over in Ohio and yelled at. I was used to Michigan driving and set my cruise for 75 and was pulled over and the trooper was VERY nice and cordial and let me off with a warning when he asked about my LE background (I informed him that I was an off duty officer and had a spare magazine and handcuffs in my glovebox).

You must have found one of the decent ones..They are not known for giving breaks too often...I was pulled over once and had my DL, registration and proof of insurance ready and I had my badge in hand, I was told that wouldn't help me...He did let me go but not without a lecture...

[Archangel M]

You must have found one of the decent ones..They are not known for giving breaks too often...I was pulled over once and had my DL, registration and proof of insurance ready and I had my badge in hand, I was told that wouldn't help me...He did let me go but not without a lecture...

Which has always made me nervous about HR218 and interstate carry.

[Drac]

Which has always made me nervous about HR218 and interstate carry.

You aint alone brother....That's why I don't carry out of state...

[punisher73]

You aint alone brother....That's why I don't carry out of state...


I will carry in Indiana when I visit my sister because even before HR218, IN recognized Michigan CCW's and was good about LEO's. I will not carry in a state that does not recognize MI CCW's (I don't have one since I am LE) just to not have issue with HR218.

[Archangel M]

You must have found one of the decent ones..They are not known for giving breaks too often...I was pulled over once and had my DL, registration and proof of insurance ready and I had my badge in hand, I was told that wouldn't help me...He did let me go but not without a lecture...

Ive often wondered what happens when officers from those sorts of departments get stopped.

Ive always been of the opinion that if I am willing to give some soccer mom or student a "pass" on a ticket why would I not do the same for another LEO? As long as he/she is "cool" and its a routine stop where no crime has been committed.

[Drac]

Ive often wondered what happens when officers from those sorts of departments get stopped.

Ive always been of the opinion that if I am willing to give some soccer mom or student a "pass" on a ticket why would I not do the same for another LEO? As long as he/she is "cool" and its a routine stop where no crime has been committed.

The working word there is cool..

[Drac]

One of the best jobs I ever had before becoming a cop was driving for one of the Armored Truck companies..

[sgtmac_46]

Which has always made me nervous about HR218 and interstate carry.

I just make sure my gun is well concealed.....I won't get in trouble anyway, as it's legal to carry, but there can't be an issue about what isn't seen.

[sgtmac_46]

Ive often wondered what happens when officers from those sorts of departments get stopped.

Ive always been of the opinion that if I am willing to give some soccer mom or student a "pass" on a ticket why would I not do the same for another LEO? As long as he/she is "cool" and its a routine stop where no crime has been committed. I don't see the issue......I don't write cops tickets.......of course in my 'old age' I don't write many traffic tickets to begin with, so teh coach and the soccer mom usually gets a break too.

I'm mostly interested in DWI's and Drugs and Felons when I pull folks over, and if I don't find evidence of any of that, they're probably getting a warning.

[Drac]

I don't see the issue......I don't write cops tickets.......of course in my 'old age' I don't write many traffic tickets to begin with, so teh coach and the soccer mom usually gets a break too.

I'm mostly interested in DWI's and Drugs and Felons when I pull folks over, and if I don't find evidence of any of that, they're probably getting a warning.

I work with a couple of guys who are Traffic Nazis...They will spend the better part of their shift cruising around looking for their next speeding ticket..Now our DUI officer is OK because never has to look, as they always seem to find him...

[Drac]

With private security ya get what ya pay for..Across the Interstate from the hotel I patrolled was another major hotel chain.My boss approcahed them about a contract saying he would have an armed guard in a marked or unmarked unit on duty after the sun went down until sunrise, they declined.
They had a rent-a-cop walking the lot with no firearm, nightstick, cuffs, mace or radio..That's right ,NO RADIO..He carried a pager if they needed him they paged him..I believe they were taking about 3-5 cars a weekend from that lot as they had nothing to fear..

[Xue Sheng]

With private security ya get what ya pay for..Across the Interstate from the hotel I patrolled was another major hotel chain.My boss approcahed them about a contract saying he would have an armed guard in a marked or unmarked unit on duty after the sun went down until sunrise, they declined.
They had a rent-a-cop walking the lot with no firearm, nightstick, cuffs, mace or radio..That right ,NO RADIO..He carried a pager if they needed him they paged him..I believe they were taking about 3-5 cars a weekend from that lot as they had nothing to fear..

Back in my state security days, one Christmas, I decided that I could use a little extra money so I went to a private security company (who shall remain nameless) to apply for a part time job.

First the guy that was interviewing was dressed like he thought he was General Patton, without the side arms, second he talked like he thought he was Patton (for the record this guy was all of 25) and third he handed me an application that was literally as thick as a book. We talked for a bit prior to me filling out the application but he would not answer many of my questions until I actually filled out the application. I then asked him one final questions; “How much does this job pay” to which he responded "we can discuss that after you fill out the application” To which I responded “No, I believe I need that question answered before we go any further” He answered and it was minimum wage. I decided that was not worth my time in just filling out the app so I left and picked up OT on my regular job.

Nothing against private security groups but that one was way over the top.

[Drac]

Back in my state security days, one Christmas, I decided that I could use a little extra money so I went to a private security company (who shall remain nameless) to apply for a part time job.

First the guy that was interviewing was dressed like he thought he was General Patton, without the side arms, second he talked like he thought he was Patton (for the record this guy was all of 25) and third he handed me an application that was literally as thick as a book. We talked for a bit prior to me filling out the application but he would not answer many of my questions until I actually filled out the application. I then asked him one final questions; “How much does this job pay” to which he responded "we can discuss that after you fill out the application” To which I responded “No, I believe I need that question answered before we go any further” He answered and it was minimum wage. I decided that was not worth my time in just filling out the app so I left and picked up OT on my regular job.

Nothing against private security groups but that one was way over the top.

Been there..One company that had an account in one of the bad areas of Cleveland did not allow its guards to carry anything but a flashlight..Another inteviewed me standing in a hallway, he asked was I licensed to carry a firearm and I said " Yes and did he need to see my certification".. He said it was not necessary...I lost interest..

[jks9199]

With private security ya get what ya pay for..Across the Interstate from the hotel I patrolled was another major hotel chain.My boss approcahed them about a contract saying he would have an armed guard in a marked or unmarked unit on duty after the sun went down until sunrise, they declined.
They had a rent-a-cop walking the lot with no firearm, nightstick, cuffs, mace or radio..That's right ,NO RADIO..He carried a pager if they needed him they paged him..I believe they were taking about 3-5 cars a weekend from that lot as they had nothing to fear..
Lots of private security doesn't have a radio, unless the site they're working has a radio. The "dispatcher" for private security is often just a scheduler who deals with taking calls from their posts that people are on duty, and filling posts when someone has called off. They're not going to have a radio system -- not even CB -- that'll cover the entire area they have contracts; it's just too expensive. Larger sites and contracts may have their own radio system, and a central base. I'd be surprised if even the companies that do response to alarms bother with radios today; cell phones are simpler and cheaper.

Private security runs a huge gamut -- but the primary mission of private security is generally to discover and report, not intervene. And, yes, lots take themselves way too seriously. Lots are put in positions that they should be, under prepared and poorly trained. And they aren't generally paid much above minimum until they get into jobs that take government security clearances.

[Drac]

Thankfully my boss had purchased refurbished portables and mobile radios..


Private security runs a huge gamut -- but the primary mission of private security is generally to discover and report, not intervene. And, yes, lots take themselves way too seriously. Lots are put in positions that they should be, under prepared and poorly trained. And they aren't generally paid much above minimum until they get into jobs that take government security clearances.

Very true..

[Xue Sheng]

Been there..One company that had an account in one of the bad areas of Cleveland did not allow its guards to carry anything but a flashlight..Another inteviewed me standing in a hallway, he asked was I licensed to carry a firearm and I said " Yes and did he need to see my certification".. He said it was not necessary...I lost interest..

In my area, for the most part it has been my experience that we are all much safer if those in many of the private security groups... don't carry.

However NYS has changed the laws so at least now there is a state training and certification required to be in security and there is a more extensive training for those that carry.

First this is not saying that all people in private security or any other type of security are like this, most are not actually; I worked with a guy at one of the hospitals I worked at that had extensive background in various private security outfits. After he was hired I was taken aside by a dozen or so LEOs that I knew and they all asked me how on earth that guy got a job here. Come to find out he had a bit of a Uniform fetish, He tended to go everywhere in uniform. Whether it be his security uniform (which my supervisor wrote him up for and later fired him) or Army surplus uniforms he bought. His kids believed he was an LEO or an SPO and he wasn’t.

He later got arrested for impersonation and I believe endangerment at another security job because he was in full uniform for that job out on a street stopping cars by swinging a 6D maglite at them and giving them verbal warnings for speeding.

[Darksoul]

-My supervisor, in a meeting with all the patrol drivers, told us about one of our sites, where security is not allowed to have any contact with the cleaning staff. Turns out, years ago, some guard was banging one of the cleaners. Not appropriate. Now, I understand physical attraction, and I have been to that site, and I must say the one cleaner was quite attractive. However, I have a feeling that the previous guard waved his badge around and threatened deportation to basically rape someone. I really hate those kinds of people.

-To the LEOs, my supervisor said that if the situation arises where we need to call law enforcement to a site, that if so directed by the Officer, we could lead them thru the building/site. I'm talking about an potentially ugly situation, not something minor. The reasoning, according to my boss, is that we know the site, therefore we can take the cops right to the area. I neither carry a gun on my job nor wear armor; I also don't have a problem with basically being the point man to get LEOs where they need to go. Partially because its the law to obey cops, mostly because I'm comfortable with my job/abilities.

-Any thoughts? More stories?

(And does anyone know how to get with a security company that has gov't contracts?)

Andrew

[jks9199]

-My supervisor, in a meeting with all the patrol drivers, told us about one of our sites, where security is not allowed to have any contact with the cleaning staff. Turns out, years ago, some guard was banging one of the cleaners. Not appropriate. Now, I understand physical attraction, and I have been to that site, and I must say the one cleaner was quite attractive. However, I have a feeling that the previous guard waved his badge around and threatened deportation to basically rape someone. I really hate those kinds of people.

-To the LEOs, my supervisor said that if the situation arises where we need to call law enforcement to a site, that if so directed by the Officer, we could lead them thru the building/site. I'm talking about an potentially ugly situation, not something minor. The reasoning, according to my boss, is that we know the site, therefore we can take the cops right to the area. I neither carry a gun on my job nor wear armor; I also don't have a problem with basically being the point man to get LEOs where they need to go. Partially because its the law to obey cops, mostly because I'm comfortable with my job/abilities.

-Any thoughts? More stories?
Depending on the situation, I wouldn't have you go in. If you aren't equipped, you're simply someone else there I have to protect. If you aren't someone I've trained with, I don't know how you're going to react and what you're going to do. At most, if it's a big site, I might have you lead me close, but not danger-close. Most likely -- I'd have you give me directions or a map.

(And does anyone know how to get with a security company that has gov't contracts?)

Andrew
Apply. Look at what companies are working at the government buildings in your area. Realize that government contracts are centered in places with lots of government contractors and offices... so in the DC area, there're tons of private security jobs tied to fed contracts. Norfolk/Virginia Beach? Lots there, too. Go down to somewhere like Culpepper or Staunton -- not so much. You can make a similar comparison in different states.

[Drac]

I got a good story about Smokey Robinson..He was appearing at the local venue and afterwards his group sans the leader came back and partied in hotel lounge..At closing time it was an effort to get them to leave the bar..Once in their rooms they started partying again at full volume..

We got a dozen noise complaints and I advised a few times them to keep it down..It got louder and I called the outside man in to watch my back..As I am walking to the room I meet Mr Robinson in the hall and he assures me there will be no more noise tonight.

.He knocks on the door and is answered by an angry " What the **** do you want now" before the door was opened..It was very quiet for the rest of the night...

[Drac]

With the job market being so poor up here ( as it is everywhere) I applied at a private security company..Only want part time work and they said the pay started at $11.00 an hr..Its unarmed ( not crazy about that aspect). Now the big question is can I make this transition..

[jks9199]

Unarmed isn't a problem, depending on the job site. In fact, there are some places where there's no point in having armed guards except to feel important... And if they stick you in a site that you should be armed and ain't -- refuse the assignment!

[Drac]

Unarmed isn't a problem, depending on the job site. In fact, there are some places where there's no point in having armed guards except to feel important... And if they stick you in a site that you should be armed and ain't -- refuse the assignment!

According to the interviewer their company has a lot of industral contracts, nothing in the inner-city ..I can sit in a guard shack and log trucks in and out..

[Bruno@MT]

Unarmed isn't a problem, depending on the job site. In fact, there are some places where there's no point in having armed guards except to feel important... And if they stick you in a site that you should be armed and ain't -- refuse the assignment!

'Should' is indeed the keyword here.
If they want you to stand in front of a door in a rough neighborhood, it's an issue. If they want you 9 to 5 at a warehouse where they store non valuable stuff, and you have to sign people in or out, and check forms... then it probably won't matter for your personal safety.

[Drac]

'Should' is indeed the keyword here.
If they want you to stand in front of a door in a rough neighborhood, it's an issue. If they want you 9 to 5 at a warehouse where they store non valuable stuff, and you have to sign people in or out, and check forms... then it probably won't matter for your personal safety.

Yeah, that's what I am thinking too..

[Drac]

Had a call back interview today and decided to give it a try..

[Wild Bill]

$11.00 an hour is good money for a standard watch job. The last company I worked for paid $11.50 an hour for me to do armed patrol and supervise standing guards in my sector.

[Drac]

$11.00 an hour is good money for a standard watch job. The last company I worked for paid $11.50 an hour for me to do armed patrol and supervise standing guards in my sector.

Yeah, I could do worse Wild Bill..Jobs up here ( as everywhere) are scarce..Now that Summer break is upon us there are lots of students looking for work..

[ratman]

I worked private security before going into law enforcement. I've been full-time LEO for 14 years. Been on both sides of the fence. In 14 years I have had more negative encounters with private security.

I investigated a case where a guard shoot at an unarmed fleeing subject (big no no, tenessee vs. Garner), have had guards rolling prostitutes for money, robbing, assault, etc.

The other issue are the ones that try to look like Dog the Bounty Hunter wearing tactical vests, etc. and try to look cool but have no skills at all. Probably the most professional security I run across is hospital securitry as they are usually paid a little better and are not contracted.

My experience is that usually it boils down to pay. We have a lot of fly by night security companies that pay the same as a lot of the fast food joints. I think I have arrested 3 security guys in my career while they were in the performance of their duties. This doesn't include the numerous guards I have rolled up on sleeping over the years.

Anyway, that's been my personal experience.

[seasoned]

I am a town Constable and also work armed security. NY state, requires certification in the use of fire arms, with a re cert every year, to carry that armed security card. Pay in my neck of the woods is not bad for SG.

[ratman]

I am a town Constable and also work armed security. NY state, requires certification in the use of fire arms, with a re cert every year, to carry that armed security card. Pay in my neck of the woods is not bad for SG.

There are a few good paying security jobs around here but few and far between. I often check the internet to see what's out there because I will be eligible for retirement at 52 and that's too young to quit working. I'd go crazy. So I see the security field as one of the post retirement possibilities. It definitely won't go contract thou. Probably something along the lines of the nuclear atomic plant in our area, etc. Which is a Federal job.

[jks9199]

I'm feeling lazy. See HERE (http://martialtalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=1106154&postcount=7). Security guards are an important and essential part of the overall security scheme. We wouldn't want cops doing a lot of security jobs, any more than we'd call in the army to smash a fly...

Guards who properly understand their role can be great to have around. The others? Some are downright scary; others are "mostly harmless." ;)

[Drac]

Well I decided to pass on the one guard service I was looking at..A cop buddy/ trainer directed me to a service that is owned and operated by retired coppers..They dont advertize for help, word of mouth gets the job done for them..

[jks9199]

Well I decided to pass on the one guard service I was looking at..A cop buddy/ trainer directed me to a service that is owned and operated by retired coppers..They dont advertize for help, word of mouth gets the job done for them..
Probably a much better fit there...

One thought just occurred to me; will working for a security company cause you problems since you went out on a medical?

[Drac]

Probably a much better fit there...

One thought just occurred to me; will working for a security company cause you problems since you went out on a medical?

Truer words were never spoken err typed..I walked in and once they saw my retired ID and all my training certificates I was in..I already met a couple of local boys working there part time, the money stinks but its not hard work..This company LOVES active and retired coppers..No problems with the retirement board..The rules states you can no longer be a sworn officer or any position that pays into the retirement system..

[Drac]

Well I have come full circle..I started out as a security guard way back in 1974 and I am now one again.. I work at the airport, many of the old time coppers stationed there remember me and I am not treated poorly. I carry no weapon except my combat light, and you can do a lot of thing with that little light if need be..

The WORST thing about working there is having to deal with TSA.( Totally Stupid Assjacks) I do more about that later..

[Brian R. VanCise]

Hey Drac,

That sounds good. I have always thought working in an airport might be fun and or interesting. Hopefully you enjoy it!

[Drac]

It aint a bad gig..The pay sucks, but with jobs being scarce its still something. The eye candy is OUTSTANDING!!!!

[jks9199]

RE: TSA's high class employees...

You mean like the genius who, when I tried to badge my way UP TO, not past the screening point with my wife when she had a 10 month old in a stroller and her carry-on bag, couldn't figure out what the badge was?

Yeah, I know, I was cheating a little... but I wasn't asking to pass the secure perimeter, just help with the stuff until she got through the magnetometers.

[Disco]

Reading through the posts, found it interesting about the OHP comments on how they don't cut a break to anyone (LE wise). I was puller over many moons ago on the way back to NY. This was way before the introduction of being able to carry interstate if a LEO. He only asked if I was carrying and I told him it was in the glove box. He stated that I was not supposed to be carrying or transport, but he didn't push the issue. We sat on the side of the road for about 10 minutes, just shooting the bull about the job and I told him what I encountered just the other day in Dayton. I was standing in line at MacDonalds and felt eyes, you know the feeling. A guy taps me on the shoulder and I glance around at him and he says......"I know you man....your a cop in NYC. You busted me and my cousin about 3 years ago on a B&E. We exchanged some small talk, got my order and quickly vacated the area. From that encounter, I learned a very valuable lesson. One never knows when or where you may run into the past. It's a good thing they passed the carry clause for LE nationwide. To all you retired or soon to be, carry all the time and everywhere.......you never know what's lurking around the next bend in the road. Even if your not retired but where a cop for some years and decided to do something else, get a carry permit, for you'll fall into the same category. Your past doesn't care if your no longer a cop, it just knows that you where and they don't like you. In this instance the old saying comes to circle, "Once a cop, always a cop".......Take care brothers and sisters...............

[Drac]

Not all the "Staties" are bad..I trained with a few at OPOTA and they were regular joes. We even corrupted one to the point that he was making jokes by the end of the week instead of just sitting there saying nothing..Yeah the bad guys are out there, and you never know when you might bump into one of them..Even retired as I am I still remain alert when exiting my vehicle or a building..

[Drac]

Now not all the TSA folks are bad, just about 97%..I've had words with a few of them when they tried to " talk tough". It usually ends when I ask if they ever worked as a LEO, when they say no my response is I have and you have no clue what your talking about.

They constantly test the contract security folks, to see if we are following procedure. I wonder who tests them??

[Drac]

I see my time as a rent-a-cop coming to and end as I have redoubled my efforts to find another job. The job is made diffcult by those jackwagon TSA officers. The rules and restrictions made by them are beyond belief. They are there to sreen passengers and luggage, but many of them believe that are FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS.

I had one tell me just how stressful if job is. Yes, pulling an 85 yr old lady out of her wheelchair so you can wand her to insure that she doesnt have an explosive device stuffed up her butt I'm sure is real stressful was my response.

[jks9199]

Security work isn't bad in and of itself -- especially if you can get into either the training or management side of things. Particular job sites, though... they can suck! Have you looked into being a PI?

[Drac]

Security work isn't bad in and of itself -- especially if you can get into either the training or management side of things. Particular job sites, though... they can suck! Have you looked into being a PI?

No, security work isnt bad. Its working at the airport and dealing with TSA that's the butt ache.. I met one of the Homeland Security reps who had a martial arts backround and we had a good conversation for about an hour. If I had seen him again I would ask about some of these restrictions placed on us.

The Contract Security officers are always called FIRST by the OPS (airport operations center) and we then decide (if we cannot resolve the issue) for OPS to contact the PD or FD. The problem is getting back to the boarding gates from ticketing or baggage claim. We have to go and use the underground tunnels to access the gate area instead of walking up the exit lanes which would cut of 2-4 minutes off response time.

They allow the local boys to do it in uniform. Why not us? I've been screened and fingerprinted and checked by God knows how many Federal agencies, plus registered with the State of Ohio as a security officer. So what's the problem? Now I am told its one of TSA's rules, not Homeland Security.

Someone else suggested PI work..I will look into it...

[sgtmac_46]

I do part time security work at one of our local hospitals. It's a good gig, and the pay is pretty darned high. Of course all the guys working there are current or former police officers, and the boss is a former detective sergeant.

[Hudson69]

I have never worked security but I have met the good and the bad; never met a mall ninja (yet anyway; Gecko45 es loco).

It is with anything else cops, security, military and more... You can't screen everyone and you never know how someone is going to be after they get into a position until they do.

I just try to treat people with respect and I think that helps some of the security people who automatically go defensive when the "real cops" show up. I figure if there is security on scene they are going (or should) know their areas better than me and I usually have no idea of their capabilities.

Working together makes work easier although some shouldn't be in the field; same goes for some of the LEO's out there as well but they usually weed themselves out since there are tighter policies for most LEO's and agencies cannot afford to have a wild card running around.

My .02 only

[Drac]

It is with anything else cops, security, military and more... You can't screen everyone and you never know how someone is going to be after they get into a position until they do.

Very true..


I just try to treat people with respect and I think that helps some of the security people who automatically go defensive when the "real cops" show up.

..Most of the security that REALLY go on the defensive are the ones who washed out of the selection process for LEO's, now they have a real attitude about those that made it



I figure if there is security on scene they are going (or should) know their areas better than me and I usually have no idea of their capabilities..

Therein lays the problem. Too many companies settle for a warm body in a uniform. Training is sparse if there is any at all..


Working together makes work easier although some shouldn't be in the field; same goes for some of the LEO's out there as well but they usually weed themselves out since there are tighter policies for most LEO's and agencies cannot afford to have a wild card running around.

My .02 only

Gospel truth there.

...