Private security firms claim that Los Angeles' notorious bureaucracy is hindering their efforts to assist homeowners during the wildfires.

A resident climbed a mountain to inspect his property

Private security firms claim that Los Angeles' notorious bureaucracy is hindering their efforts to assist homeowners during the wildfires.
Private security firms claim that Los Angeles' notorious bureaucracy is hindering their efforts to assist homeowners during the wildfires.

Private security experts claim that Los Angeles' infamous red tape is preventing some guards from serving the wealthy residents of Pacific Palisades, despite their frequent use of private security services.

Authorities have arrested at least 20 people on looting-related charges and warned residents and potential looters that the number of arrests could increase.

ASC Private Security in Los Angeles has bodies ready to work, but the CEO, Craig Paul, can't obtain authorization to send them into restricted areas where clients require their services.

"He spoke to Planet Chronicle Digital about sitting on hold with the LAPD for 45 minutes without anyone picking up. "I eventually gave up because I knew even if they answered, they would dismiss me," he said."

firefighters silhouetted by flames
Fire crews battle the Kenneth Fire in the West Hills section of Los Angeles, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025.  (Ethan Swope/AP)

One of his customers surreptitiously entered the restricted area and climbed a mountain to inspect his property, prompting the client to inquire if his agents could do the same. However, that is not an option, he stated, but he is optimistic that the police will grant access to his teams.

The Pacific Palisades community, situated in the midst of one of the largest active wildfires, is a high-income area that frequently experiences burglary and home invasion threats.

He stated that these homes, valued at $30 million, $40 million, and $50 million, should have their property adequately protected for the individuals who own them.

wildfires los angeles
The wind whips embers while a firefighter battles the fire in the Angeles National Forest near Mt. Wilson as the wildfires burn in the Los Angeles area, during the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, Jan. 9, 2025.  (REUTERS/Ringo Chiu)

"Crime is a serious issue, as evidenced by the burglaries that occur every night in Pacific Palisades, one of the worst neighborhoods for crime at the moment. Homeowners are rightfully concerned about their security and need it to be able to access their homes at all times."

Some private security firms are run by individuals with a law enforcement background, while others are not, according to Paul, and he observes a distinction in how they are treated by authorities.

California wildfire
People watch the smoke and flames from the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood on Jan. 7, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Fueled by intense Santa Ana Winds, the Palisades Fire has grown to over 2,900 acres and 30,000 people have been ordered to evacuate while a second fire has emerged near Eaton Canyon.  (Tiffany Rose/Getty Images)

David Katz, CEO of Global Security Group and a former Drug Enforcement Administration special agent, stated that his company withdrew from Los Angeles years ago.

"The looting is bad, but people are staying and risking their lives because they know if they leave, their property will be stolen or burned," he said to Planet Chronicle Digital. "I have many men who could go, but they would have to sign a waiver."

Aftermath of the California wildfires
Firefighters protect what is left of homes from the Palisades Fire. (Mark J. Terrill)

SAGE Intelligence's managing director, Herman Weisberg, a former NYPD detective, stated that some of his clients are concerned about losing valuable artwork and other possessions to looters if the fire doesn't reach them first.

"The government faces a challenging job, which is evidently difficult, as stated by the speaker to Planet Chronicle Digital. Currently, the speaker believes that they are in the worst part of it, trying to address their clients' needs and concerns while also respecting the government's job and working with them instead of against them."

Kenneth Fire firefighter
A firefighter communicates in front of the advancing Kenneth Fire in the West Hills section of Los Angeles on Thursday, Jan. 9. (AP/Ethan Swope)

WATCH: Private security firm slammed amid Pacific Palisades fire in Los Angeles

Private security firm slammed amid Pacific Palisades fire in Los Angeles

Since the devastation of New Orleans by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, he hasn't seen a situation as bad as this one.

"He stated that he had been working tirelessly on logistics for accommodating people, providing vehicles and supplies, and ensuring their safety. He acknowledged that the upcoming days would be challenging for his industry, government, law enforcement, fire department, and most importantly, the families, individuals, and companies affected by the situation."

Aftermath of the California wildfires
Two people ride bicycles amid the destruction left behind by the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. (Jae C. Hong/AP)

Instead of attending Hollywood award shows, he was able to focus on helping clients in their own communities due to their cancellation.

"Instead of being on a red carpet, they'll be protecting people in their communities," he said. "The more Hollywood cancels, the better it is for security."

by Michael Ruiz

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