Private security patrols Lakewood amid sheriff deputy shortage
LAKEWOOD, Calif. March 8 2024 Lakewood is one of the growing cities hiring private security companies to patrol their communities.
It’s a job usually reserved for law enforcement officials, but to make up for a limited number of LA County sheriff personnel, the city turned to private security.
The program is now entering its second full year with a team of four security guards who patrol different city areas at night.
The security guards from Southwest Patrol Inc. are not armed and cannot arrest anyone, but the idea is to increase the eyes and ears on the ground while freeing up the deputies who are on shift to respond to calls.
According to the City of Lakewood, data from 2023 shows a 10% drop in overall crime, including auto burglaries and catalytic converter thefts.
The company’s contract expires in June, and the city expects to renew it.
