A loaded question...be nice please :)

[Mr. Security]

How many of you would be willing to let a security officer, in uniform, off with a verbal warning for a MINOR traffic infraction? My question is based on the assumption that attitude is NOT a problem in this example. :)

[SWATcop]

I would treat you the same as anybody else that WASN'T a cop.

[irishlad2nv]

You are about to open a can of worms with this specific question, which a smiliar thread was started not too long ago and ****ed a lot of people off.

[SWATcop]

You are about to open a can of worms with this specific question, which a smiliar thread was started not too long ago and ****ed a lot of people off.
It looks like he's already "fishin." Did you see his other post complaining about people's signatures yet? Gimme' a break. 76 posts and he's already complaining to the O.com administration. Hey, "Mall Cop," or "Mr. Security," whatever your name is - it's like a radio station. If you don't like what's playing, turn the channel.

[Kieth M.]

Did it once over 20 years ago. He ran the red light by a mile and nearly caused an accident. I made the traffic stop, but disarmed him of his revolver, as I wrote the ticket, but allowed him to stay in the car....don't know why I did that....but it seemed like a good idea at the time. He gave me the "Hey, we're your back-up sometimes!" speech. But I didn't buy it, then.

Funny, can't recall ever being backed-up by a security guard in 20 years of big-city patrol - unless it was on their property and in their best interest. Spent most of the time cleaning up after them.

As I recall, we were always having trouble with security guards at a particular dance club (Okay, so it was a disco!), one night, my partner and I squared off, old west-style, with four of them. Fingers twitching over the grips of our holstered guns. I swear it was like a scene from a cowboy movie. When the rest of my boys arrived, them guards went real peacable-like to the station. It was lookin' bad for a moment, thought we'd be makin' history.

[Kieth M.]

You know, I didn't respond to your actual question. Like anyone else with a good attitude, a pleasant demeanor, or a low-cut blouse and a giggle...they might find themselves getting off with a warning from the "nice old police sergeant."

[Mr. Security]

You are about to open a can of worms with this specific question, which a smiliar thread was started not too long ago and ****ed a lot of people off.

Why do you feel that way?

[Mr. Security]

It looks like he's already "fishin." Did you see his other post complaining about people's signatures yet? Gimme' a break. 76 posts and he's already complaining to the O.com administration. Hey, "Mall Cop," or "Mr. Security," whatever your name is - it's like a radio station. If you don't like what's playing, turn the channel.

I simply made a suggestion. In fact, your picture/signature is not one of the ones I am referring to.

[irishlad2nv]

Dude. As I stated, this was brought up not too long ago. To me, I would treat you the same as a Wendy's employee in uniform, by the time I approach your vehicle I already have in my mind to write you a citation or not. End of Story, move on with your next arrogant question of the day.

[Mr. Security]

Did it once over 20 years ago. He ran the red light by a mile and nearly caused an accident. I made the traffic stop, but disarmed him of his revolver, as I wrote the ticket, but allowed him to stay in the car....don't know why I did that....but it seemed like a good idea at the time. He gave me the "Hey, we're your back-up sometimes!" speech. But I didn't buy it, then.

Funny, can't recall ever being backed-up by a security guard in 20 years of big-city patrol - unless it was on their property and in their best interest. Spent most of the time cleaning up after them.

As I recall, we were always having trouble with security guards at a particular dance club (Okay, so it was a disco!), one night, my partner and I squared off, old west-style, with four of them. Fingers twitching over the grips of our holstered guns. I swear it was like a scene from a cowboy movie. When the rest of my boys arrived, them guards went real peacable-like to the station. It was lookin' bad for a moment, thought we'd be makin' history.

I agree. This individual didn't merit ANY leeway.

[Mr. Security]

You know, I didn't respond to your actual question. Like anyone else with a good attitude, a pleasant demeanor, or a low-cut blouse and a giggle...they might find themselves getting off with a warning from the "nice old police sergeant."

Fair enough. Thanks Kieth. :)

[Mr. Security]

Dude. As I stated, this was brought up not too long ago. To me, I would treat you the same as a Wendy's employee in uniform, by the time I approach your vehicle I already have in my mind to write you a citation or not. End of Story, move on with your next arrogant question of the day.

Sorry you feel that way.

[NJladyGlock21]

Sorry you feel that way.
Are you saying we should give the Wendy's uniform the same respect?

[WTPD3534]

Are you saying we should give the Wendy's uniform the same respect?

Let's not be ridiculous now shall we? The professional courtesy stops at Wal-Mart smocks. :rolleyes:

[Mid_Ohio_Po]

Sorry you feel that way.

Please explain why your security status would give you any more credit than any other citizen who is cooperative without an attitude.

[e-man]

SECURITY SCHMURITY. :D In the city, the HUGE majority of uniformed security are baggy pant turds who ONLY have a job as a condition of their bail. Seriously, Ive seen{MY EXPERIENCE HERE PEEPS} too many bad guys on the bus or at a bus stop as I dont EVER ride a bus with their AAA+ Protection service {not a real name people} with the shirt untucked, ballcap on sideways ala gansta punks and the pants big enough to fit me and HIM.
Security gets treated with the attitude I get. If you are nice I might be inclined to discretion the stop, if I get attitude of "I coulda ,shoulda, been blah blah but I didnt want to be..." then u get cited.
Beaten a dead horse here Mister Guard...

[NJladyGlock21]

SECURITY SCHMURITY. :D In the city, the HUGE majority of uniformed security are baggy pant turds who ONLY have a job as a condition of their bail. Seriously, Ive seen{MY EXPERIENCE HERE PEEPS} too many bad guys on the bus or at a bus stop as I dont EVER ride a bus with their AAA+ Protection service {not a real name people} with the shirt untucked, ballcap on sideways ala gansta punks and the pants big enough to fit me and HIM.
Security gets treated with the attitude I get. If you are nice I might be inclined to discretion the stop, if I get attitude of "I coulda ,shoulda, been blah blah but I didnt want to be..." then u get cited.
Beaten a dead horse here Mister Guard...
Agreed E-Man.
Also, a lot of corporate park, mall, parking lot security guards are there so they can call their crews and let them know when the lots are clear of cops....and they can pick their choice of vehicles. Or...they call their crews into the offices during breaks and take credit cards from the workers personal drawers. :rolleyes: woo hoo more paperwork for me!
Most are driving to work suspended with warrants out the ***....but of course in their mothers car.

[Mid_Ohio_Po]

Agreed E-Man.
Also, a lot of corporate park, mall, parking lot security guards are there so they can call their crews and let them know when the lots are clear of cops....and they can pick their choice of vehicles. Or...they call their crews into the offices during breaks and take credit cards from the workers personal drawers. :rolleyes: woo hoo more paperwork for me!
Most are driving to work suspended with warrants out the ***....but of course in their mothers car.

Sounds like you work around here! LOL

Not to kick the whole security dead horse again, but the only one...yes ONE that I can get along with is the guy who picks up part time at our hospital and works full time PD in a smaller town nearby.

[Wisconsin Migra]

Dude. As I stated, this was brought up not too long ago. To me, I would treat you the same as a Wendy's employee in uniform, by the time I approach your vehicle I already have in my mind to write you a citation or not. End of Story, move on with your next arrogant question of the day.

I second that motion. Mr. Security, why don't you start your own site, as this is for law enforcement officers.

[Mr. Security]

Please explain why your security status would give you any more credit than any other citizen who is cooperative without an attitude.

It doesn't. However, we interact with LE often and it seems that some of the same LEO's who moan and groan about the public not treating them with respect are quick to treat security officers like they are not worthy of respect. It's unfortunate because security will continue to expand into areas that have been traditionally reserved for LE. :(

[Wisconsin Migra]

It doesn't. However, we interact with LE often and it seems that some of the same LEO's who moan and groan about the public not treating them with respect are quick to treat security officers like they are not worthy of respect. It's unfortunate because security will continue to expand into areas that have been traditionally reserved for LE. :(

Then why don't you join law enforcement and quit trying to play one on tv?

[Mr. Security]

I second that motion. Mr. Security, why don't you start your own site, as this is for law enforcement officers.

One again you are only partially correct. Some forums on this site are currently open to the public, including security officers.

[Mr. Security]

Then why don't you join law enforcement and quit trying to play one on tv?

I'm happy working as a security officer. Incidentally, the last part of your post is non-sense. :rolleyes:

[Mr. Security]

SECURITY SCHMURITY. :D In the city, the HUGE majority of uniformed security are baggy pant turds who ONLY have a job as a condition of their bail.

Is this your opinion or do you have a source to back up your statement?

[Mr. Security]

Sounds like you work around here! LOL

Not to kick the whole security dead horse again, but the only one...yes ONE that I can get along with is the guy who picks up part time at our hospital and works full time PD in a smaller town nearby.

Remember, please, that the public tends to stereotype the police unfairly too. Why attack security when many of us respect you LEO's officers? Aren't you doing the same thing you dislike about the public?

[Mid_Ohio_Po]

Remember, please, that the public tends to stereotype the police unfairly too. Why attack security when many of us respect you LEO's officers? Aren't you doing the same thing you dislike about the public?


While I see your point, I must point out that I stated in my area, meaning in my experience. Sure the public has had bad experiences with LEO's giving them the bad image, but I can bet you for every one bad experience they have had with LEO's that there are 10 good experiences that don't get shared. However I highly doubt that ratio would be accurate with LEO having Security Guard encounters.

The security officers that don't get treated with respect are the ones who act or carry themselves like they don't deserve it. I interact with people in many professions throughout my shifts, if I cut them all breaks I would never get anything done, and no one would be charged for any violation, criminal or traffic.

[Mr. Security]

Admittedly, security has more 'bad apples' than LE. You can chalk that up to a number of factors, such as $10.00/hr. pay. It is much harder for us to recruit and retain qualified security officers. Recently, long overdue laws have been passed to help address some of those issues. The bottom line is this: Judge us on a case-by-case basis instead of lumping us all together with the bad ones. Why not peruse the security forums yourself? You may be surprised by the professionalism demonstrated by its members. :)

[RECOIL4015]

For the most part i give breaks for stupid mistakes when there is no chance of a crash or other fall out. The only exception would be on dv calls. As for sec work down here, most are trying for jobs in LE. About half are good to go, the other half i have "met" on duty. I do have a prob with red and gold plates here in the state of Ohio.

[Tennsix]

Tough room...

[Joseph]

Like I would anyone else.

[Mr. Security]

For the most part i give breaks for stupid mistakes when there is no chance of a crash or other fall out. The only exception would be on dv calls. As for sec work down here, most are trying for jobs in LE. About half are good to go, the other half i have "met" on duty. I do have a prob with red and gold plates here in the state of Ohio.

Thank you for answering my question fairly and professionally. I sincerely appreciate it. :)

[nacorbier]

Tough room...

You can say that again. :) You know, I always thought it would be amusing if every LEO who had a negative contact took the company information and called the office the next morning, telling the manager or owner about their negative contact with their employee.

That way, you can quickly identify which companies actually try, and which just put warm bodies out to warm a pair of nike's.

[Mr. Security]

Tough room...

And how! :( I know there will always be those who look down on the security profession. Some of it is the industries fault. They refuse to screen their applicants properly and consistently hire individuals that do not belong in security. It's very frustrating for those of us working hard to be professional and stay within our boundaries as security officers.

The other problem stems from the friction seen between different agencies. Friction between local law enforcement and security, between state and local LE, between the aforementioned agencies and Federal agencies, and even between Federal agencies themselves. All I can do is try to make sure that the LEO's I interact with see that there are many s/o's working hard to correct the damage inflicted on our image by individuals who absolutely DO NOT belong in the security industry.

To those of you in LE, please endeavor to give s/o

[nacorbier]

I second that motion. Mr. Security, why don't you start your own site, as this is for law enforcement officers.

He has one, well, rather, Cygnus Publications has one. If you look below Duty Gear, on the main page, you'll see Firehouse for FF/EMS, and SecurityInfoWatch for security (Which is more than just human guards. :))

The only thing I can say about SIW's forums is that they have the same rules as O.com. Bash the people who they're targeting the advertisements to, and you get banned.

As for "go back to your forum," Mr. Security is right, this is a public section. However, look at the top of every page, and it says "There Are Private Forums for Law Enforcement." Those of us not in LE, who are here, remain here because we're not stupid enough to **** the crowds off. So, "public section" goes only as far as "do not **** people off and start flaming wars."

As far as giving special consideration to security officers... I see no reason for a blanket policy. I have had police officers give me special consideration, but that was due to the professional relationship between myself and that officer, or my employer and that agency. I will note that I've only been pulled over twice, once was in an unmarked company vehicle (traffic unit from out of area thought I was looking for drug dealers. He was right. Just not the way he wanted. He also backed off the area and we eventually got one.), the other was by a state trooper, who clocked me doing 80 in a 70. He understood my reason, and went with me to check on my employee who failed to answer his status check.

[canuck21]

What about civilian police employees? Just curious. Dispatchers, etc (not volunteers but full time staff). In our own jurisdiction there wouldn't be problems, what about close surrounding ones?

[DukeFan]

First of all I want to say I am not a police officer! I am a avg. joe just like you. The only difference is you dress up to play cops and robbers in some shopping mall or wal-mart! :eek:

Why would a police officer give you a break over me? Is this because you think being a security dude is the same as being a police officer, that drives a golf cart! :eek:

If you run a red light, speed or any thing else then you should get a ticket just like the rest of us! To say or imply that you are better than the avg joe is dumb! :mad: Your just a person that is on his way to work at Wal-mart or where ever as part of there security team.

The over all answer here has been no I wouldn't treat you the same as another police officer. You would be treated the same as I and get a ticket.

[usafcop64528]

Let's not be ridiculous now shall we? The professional courtesy stops at Wal-Mart smocks. :rolleyes:
oh come on, you mean my old k-mart smock won't cut it? :mad: damn you

[Wisconsin Migra]

One again you are only partially correct. Some forums on this site are currently open to the public, including security officers.

You are right. My apologies, Mr. S. I was not fully cognizant of the different forums public/leo only when I bloviated. You have a right to voice your opinion here and I was wrong. Sorry.

Also, I do not look down on security officers. I really dont.

[MAD_MAX333]

..............

[vsp645]

Mr. Security's question reminds me of a joke about our retirement system.

What's the first thing a trooper gets upon his retirement?

A job! (hahahahahahahaha)



A lot of retired troops end up in the security field to help pay the bills that 1/2 reduction in salary can't cover. Stereotypes about security are pretty bad but a lot of them at least in this state are sometimes 30 year road dawg officers. just my .02

[Bodie]

A SECURITY GUARD is a civilian on or off duty and gets no "special treatment" except if they try to "assist" with a police matter then they get treated real special and face an "Obstructing Official Business" charge.

Mr Security we have heard from you on an issue like this and that you don't want to be an armed police officer so most of us probably wish you would find a website that just might be more in tune with your "career" of choice.

This is Ask A Cop ::::: So why are so many civilians replying to this question and to so many others in this section ??????

Calls from private and company security guards and about private and company security guards waste a lot of leo time and resources around here.
Arrest of Security Guards avg 2 or 3 per month many in uniform for warrants or dui etc. (In our metro area)

[SgtScott31]

Depending on the traffic infraction involved. If the person is doing something assnine, then I write them, no matter what type of uniform they're wearing (aside from LE :D).

Wrote a security officer not too long ago for going about 70 mph in a posted 50mph. He was about 19 yrs old and expected some type of special treatment. When I didn't give it to him, he questioned me about my jurisdiction since I was airport PD. Didn't win that one. ;)

[CHPMarine]

as long as they are respectful and don't pull the "I'm one of you" lines, i usually give them a break. there are plenty of violators out there to pinch without having to get all badge heavy in front of a security guard to show your superiority. The way i look at it is this, alot of them wanted to be cops, but for one reason or another, couldn't. (not all of them) for this reason, those same individuals look up to cops. why dissappoint them? If you had someone you looked up to disrespect you and make you feel inferior, it would really change your perception of that person wouldnt it?
besides, i work in "the yard", (graveyard shift to all those who are unfamiliar), and that means i am only loking for drunks, drugs, and gang bangers. Why waste time pinching a security guard when in most cases, they will listen to you if you give them a stern warning.
I do agree that there are some punks that work in the security industry. that is a different case. but when you stop "Melvin" with 3 handcuff cases, two empty speedloader pouches (with no gun), 3 rubber glove pouches and two flashlight holders on his belt, with a whip antenna and police scanner in his police runout crown vic and amber deck lights, give him a break... you will make his day, hell, his week...

[willis34]

When I stopped a car (unless it was a headlight/taillight 2am "fishing" stop) I had my mind made up as to if I was going to cite or not. I don't feel a security guard would warrant any more or less consideration of getting a warning. If the guy/gal was polite & didn't expect being given a break, then as with anyone there would have been a chance with the right excuse or hard luck story.

[ML8282]

I agree with CHPMarine completely.

You always have your discretion. If the stop was initiated due to a flagrant violation, then do your job.

If it's 12:05am on a dead Wednesday night, and I stop him for doing 78 in a 65, as long as he's respectful, I'd cut him loose. Plenty of other opportunities.

[Centurion44]

It doesn't. However, we interact with LE often and it seems that some of the same LEO's who moan and groan about the public not treating them with respect are quick to treat security officers like they are not worthy of respect.

Okay- I usually try to be reserve about these topics because I was once a SecGuard (at a mall, no less) who worked hard and finally became a cop. So right out of the gate, I give you a couple of points.

But this statement is retarded. It's that kind of mentality that makes some of these knuckleheads post what they do. Listen, I see tow-truck drivers more than I do security guards, and they show me twice the respect. Does that mean they are more deserving of a break than you are?

You ask a general question- loaded, by your own admittance- and then get offended when you get answers from individuals. The correct answer is: it depends on the cop. Now if you think for one second you being treated "better" than the average compliant citizen means your being disrespected, then that's your own inadequancies shining through. See a shrink, not this forum.

I'm a certified police officer in the state of Georgia. If I get pulled over, I still don't expect a break. I'm not going to ask for any quarter and I expect non to be asked of me. If I don't think I'm any less deserving of a citation than a non-sworn offender, what on the God's green earth makes you think you are? You are hired to do two things: Shake doors and a warm a uniform. That's it. End of list. Get over it. Move on.

It's unfortunate because security will continue to expand into areas that have been traditionally reserved for LE. :(

ROFLMAO. I guess I need to update my resume since my job's at risk. I used to be a supervisor for a security company. Your not fooling anyone with that statement.

[jasc451]

First off I'm not a SG or LEO. I just have a question to this thread that relates in a way. DO all LEO's get pref. courtesy for stops. I do understand that sometimes there are reasons, but sappose they are just driving down the road in the personal vehicle on there day off and are speeding more then everyone else. Do they get pref. courtesy even then? Im just curious not trying to make trouble. I drove ambulance years back and knew alot of the state troopers that we worked with on accidents and I did get let off a couple of times by some of the ones I knew.

[SgtScott31]

First off I'm not a SG or LEO. I just have a question to this thread that relates in a way. DO all LEO's get pref. courtesy for stops. I do understand that sometimes there are reasons, but sappose they are just driving down the road in the personal vehicle on there day off and are speeding more then everyone else. Do they get pref. courtesy even then? Im just curious not trying to make trouble. I drove ambulance years back and knew alot of the state troopers that we worked with on accidents and I did get let off a couple of times by some of the ones I knew.

Unless they are doing something really reckless...yes, for the most part I cut them a break. I DO expect respect from them just as any other driver.

btw... (sp=professional, sp=suppose, not sappose)

[samnlexisdad]

Got back LEO's on this one. Around my area, Security companies are quick to hire as many people as they can at minimum wage. This includes the gang banger or local drunk. They throw them in a "patrol car" and send them off to fight crime (or commit crime in some cases). Just last week I observed a local security companies vehicle driving around and I noticed a red shadow coming from the spotlight. I looked closer and the knuckleheads had put red reynolds wrap on the spot to make it appear to be a red light since they are only supposed to display ambers. I thought it was the most rediculous thing. Why not just become a cop and quit acting like one.

[drewsy64]

to the above, it's easier said than done, as i'm sure you know. i'm a sorry as SG right now, too, but i want to be a cop. problems is, it's TOUGH, and it takes a long *** time to do so. i've been out of college for a year now, and i'm still waiting to hear back. in columbus, it'll be at LEAST another year before they put a class through. the surrounding depts aren't hiring, so what can i do? wait. and until i get that letter saying that i'm going to the academy, i have to earn a living somehow, and unfortunately it's by being a SG.