Private Security Hindered by City's Red Tape in Los Angeles Wildfires

In the midst of the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, a new challenge has emerged for the city's private security firms. Rich and famous residents of the fire-stricken Pacific Palisades community are turning to these firms for protection, but bureaucratic red tape is preventing some guards from reaching their clients.

Craig Paul, the CEO of ASC Private Security, shared his frustration with the obstacles they face. Despite having willing personnel ready to work, they are unable to obtain authorization to enter restricted areas where their clients reside. Paul recounted a harrowing incident where a customer took matters into his own hands, hiking up a mountain behind police lines to check on his property due to concerns. The inability of security agents to do the same highlights the urgency of the situation.

The Pacific Palisades community, already vulnerable to threats of burglary and home invasion, is now grappling with the dual challenges of wildfires and looting. Paul emphasized the need for heightened security in the area, citing the frequent criminal activities that plague the neighborhood. The escalating dangers faced by homeowners underscore the critical need for access to security services during this crisis.

David Katz, a former DEA special agent and CEO of Global Security Group, shed light on the complexities of providing security in the midst of a disaster. He emphasized the challenges faced by private security firms, with some opting to withdraw from Los Angeles due to the risks involved. Katz's perspective highlights the delicate balance between meeting client needs and navigating government protocols in times of crisis.

Herman Weisberg, a former NYPD detective and managing director of SAGE Intelligence, echoed concerns about potential looting threats faced by his clients. As the wildfires continue to pose a threat to valuable assets, Weisberg emphasized the need for collaboration between private security firms and government agencies to address the evolving situation.

In the face of adversity, the resilience and adaptability of private security firms come to the forefront. Despite logistical challenges, these firms are mobilizing resources to protect their clients and communities. The coordination between security personnel, law enforcement, and firefighting agencies reflects a unified front in the battle against the wildfires and looting in Los Angeles.