Clearing the Air on Law Enforcement

"CLEARING THE AIR"

In my "pursuit" of "dispelling the myths" in private sector Security, I've been messaged a few times by people claiming I'm "hating on the Police." So, I'd like to "clear the air" on that if I may.

Explaining what Law Enforcement can and cannot do in the realm of private Security is not hating on them. I wore the badge, swore to an oath, and ran the streets of Houston and Harris County as a Deputy in the protection of others. I am very fond of my years in Law Enforcement and fully support my brothers and sisters in the profession.

Law Enforcement was specifically designed for just that - "Law - enforcement." Private Security was specifically designed for just that - "Private - security." While there are overlaps between the two, they are both very different in approach and effect. One is not "beneath" the other. They are 2 separate roles, both noble, both needed. Police Officers are quick to explain that "Security" is not "Law Enforcement." Respectfully, however, that is a two-way-street. "Law Enforcement" is also not "Security." Law Enforcement was not designed for "private" Security. They have the authority to enforce state and local law, but cannot enforce private property rules, detain without probable cause, lawfully enforce access control in behalf of the property owner on private property, criminally trespass without the property owner/management acting as the complainant, must abide within the 4th amendment parameters for search, etc. This is not a discredit to Law Enforcement. It's fact, and it's by design.

There are many, many misconceptions about private Security that have carried on for decades. Comparing Law Enforcement with Security for private... "Security," is like comparing apples-to-oranges. They are both in the "fruit family," but are each unique and serve a specific taste.

• Police Officers are more highly trained! Yes, for "law enforcement." However, they do not teach access control, camera systems, risk assessments, physical security measures, advance-work and other security protocol in the Police Academy.
• Armed Security Officers pose a liability to our property! A properly licensed and state qualified Security Officer poses no more liability that hiring an off-duty Police Officer. They are fully vetted and approved by the state to function in that capacity. In fact, truth be told, you (the client) are not covered by an agency insurance policy, should the off-duty Police Officer draw a lawsuit for his/her actions or failing to act, appropriately. Security firms are required to have insurance that covers you, as the client, in the event of a lawsuit. Another interesting thing to note: Op6 Officers have TWICE the state requirement for firearm range qualification, when compared to Texas Police Officers (TCOLE requirements).
• Private Security Officers have no real authority! This is probably one of the biggest misconceptions in the industry, to date. The fact is, private Security Officers have more - MUCH more private property authority than the Police. By contract, they are acting in behalf of the owner and/or manager of the property. They can legally enforce private property rules (dress code, access points, parking, etc.), detain without probable cause, search without 4th amendment stipulations, eject people from the property without client complaint, trespass completely on behalf of / without the need of the client, and arrest for disturbance of the peace, trespass, felonies and to prevent theft. The misconception came when so many Security firms stopped allowing their Officers to take action - ANY action, other than simply observing and calling the Police. It's never been that they "can't" or "couldn't," but wouldn't, for fear of lawsuits. At Op6 , we are one of a few companies who have "Arrest-Authorized" Officers who WILL take action on your behalf, because they are properly trained and equipped to do so.

Again, this is not "hating on the Police." We need the Police! We respect the Police. We appreciate everything they do to enforce law and order throughout our great country. They serve a role - a significant role, just as those who work in private Security.

When choosing the best solution for the safety and "Security" of yourself, your staff, your patrons, and your properties, it is important to understand the facts from myths. And we will continue to share those facts and "clear-the-air."