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21 Jul 2017
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Security Guard Steals from Client - How to Choose a Security Company You Can Trust

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Posted By Faye R.

A Delaware man who was paid to protect a mansion has confessed to stealing from that same mansion and now faces felony theft charges. 25 year old Scott Gagnon is charged with stealing an antique gun, valued at roughly $10,000, from a Portsmouth home. At the time, he was working as a security guard for the security company hired to keep thieves out of the home.

Gagnon turned himself into police after a warrant was issued for his arrest. The police investigation that led to the warrant had identified Gagnon as the person who stole the antique Flintlock pistol made by England's Ketland and Company, believed to date back to the 19th century. Police say the gun looks like one of those metal brownish colored pistols you might see in a pirate movie. Police recovered the gun in good condition.

Authorities are keeping hush about the exact details of the case and what security company was involved. However, police did say interviews of people in the residence at the time of the theft led to Gagnon being the prime suspect.

This news story beckons the question - how do you choose a security guard or monitoring company that you can trust? The answer is not simple, but first you should know the facts. Most states require security guards working for a security company to be licensed. In addition, most states require applicants to be at least 18 years old, pass a background check and drug test, and complete classroom training in such subjects as property rights, emergency procedures, and detention of suspected criminals.

When gathering information about all this you should ask your insurance company, friends, or colleagues for guidance and security company recommendations. Then contact your local police department, state licensing agencies, consumer protection agencies, and the Better Business Bureau. Do your own investigation and ask these organizations about the standing of the companies you are considering. Depending on the scope of what you would like to protect, you can take it a step further and conduct background checks of your own on the guards that will be assigned to protect your house or property.

Remember, at the very least, reliable companies will provide testimonials from satisfied customers and referrals who you can call upon. Not only should you learn about the company and security guard qualifications, but you should learn specifics about the operation, such as how the dispatch center works, where the center or centers are located, what is the plan if there is some sort of a dispatch center power failure, and what is the company's relationship with the local police and fire departments.

Furthermore, don't base your decision on cost. Generally, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Before deciding on a company, ask for a contract agreement and take your time deciding. Go over the contract with your insurance agent and your lawyer.

With a growing concern about personal and residential security, more and more homeowners will consider upgrading their security measures. For some with high dollar valuables, this will consist of more than just a home alarm and surveillance system, but will consist of a security guard company hired to monitor and patrol your home and neighborhood. Knowing who to trust and how to determine that is as important as ever.

Comments (3)

By Grant A. on JUL 24 2017 @ 10:00AM

Yikes.

By Lena W. on JUL 24 2017 @ 6:15AM

Does Angie's list have ratings for security contractors, too? Or, is it just for construction and things like that.

By Joshua M. on JUL 23 2017 @ 9:09AM

You've seen it in movies, and it's just as common in real life.

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