Crime School

Home burglar alarm decisions are part of your family security plan. What home alarm system feature is important for you to consider? Do I need to pay to have my home burglar alarm system monitored? Alarm Systems are Part of the Family Security Plan Interview by Mark Toner writing for Nationwide Insurance. Podcast Time Stamps: 00:39 -- Show introduction by Security Expert Chris McGoey. 01:32 -- Home burglar alarm system is another tool in the security toolbox. 01:50 -- Most homeowners don't use their alarm system once installed. 02:35 -- Interview with Mark Toner begins. 04:50 -- The alarm industry is a subscription-based monitoring vendor. 07:20 -- Most homeowners just want a basic burglar deterrent system. 08:05 -- Central Station monitoring option is not needed in many cases. 09:25 -- Remote alarm monitoring service is critical for fire response. 10:40 -- Before buying, make a family commitment to use it every day. 12:10 -- Great feature hardly ever used is bedtime perimeter alarm setup. 14:15 -- Quality system components and installation prevent false alarms. 15:35 -- Are DIY off-the-shelf discount alarm systems any good? 16:45 -- False alarms are #2 reason why people stop using the home alarm. 18:00 -- Awareness and a home security plan is the most important factor. Why do homeowners stop using their burglar alarm system?Tweet This Home Burglar Alarm Decisions Depend on Needs Most people don't feel the need or want the expense of an alarm system. Apartment tenants usually don't have an option for a home alarm system. Home alarm systems are designed to make noise and deter burglars. Alarm systems are programmed to report break-ins, but it's not required. Most homeowners don't require all the bells & whistles that drive up costs. Most alarm system owners don't use it on a regular basis if at all. Add a home alarm system to your family security plan and use it. Other Home Burglar Alarm Related Podcasts Home Security Alarm –Best Practices for Making Places Safe 10 Reasons Why Burglars Choose Your Home Home Security Burglars, Robbers, Safe Rooms Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Adult Shoplifters are using Kids for theft at a Florida Walmart. Why do adult shoplifters use children to commit theft from retail stores? Do arrest reports show that parents teach their children how to be thieves? Parents Accused of Shoplifting with their Kids at Walmart Interview by Jim Ross with the Ocala Star-Banner newspaper. Podcast Time Stamps: 00:39 -- Show introduction by Crime School Security Expert Chris McGoey. 03:39 -- Interview begins by Jim Ross with the Ocala Star-Banner newspaper. 03:50 -- Police arrest parents shoplifting with 12-year old daughter at Walmart. 04:52 -- What is the frequency of older kids shoplifting with adults or parents? 05:10 -- In a case like this, is the child a victim, a shoplifter, or both? 06:00 -- Was a book written about using children called "Oliver Twist". 07:00 -- Adult shoplifters believe children make them look less suspicious. 08:10 -- Parents normally do not shoplift in front of older children. 10:05 -- Most adults will not shoplift in front of their significant other. 13:00 -- Adult shoplifters hope loss prevention agents will be fooled by this. 13:44 -- Crime School Host Chris McGoey gives his thoughts about the story. 14:50 -- Corporate retailers have policy challenges regarding shoplifter detentions. 20:00 -- Corporate policy needs to address every detention/arrest protocol. 20:55 -- Criminal charges are sometimes reduced or dismissed by courts. 21:25 -- Retailers are sometimes exposed to civil liability from judicial decisions. 24:00 -- Whose rights are more important to protect: Criminal v. Retailer? 25:58 -- Shoplifters can file civil lawsuits when criminal cases are dismissed. Adults using kids to steal like from the story, Oliver TwistTweet This Adult Shoplifters with Children Challenge Loss Prevention Older children usually do not shoplift together with adults. Likewise, significant others generally do not shoplift together. Adults with infants in large baby carriages sometimes require monitoring. Adult shoplifters believe that children nearby make them less suspicious. Do a Google Search of "Walmart children shoplifting with parents Florida" Some adult shoplifters will abandon their children in-store to avoid capture. Retailers need policies on how to deal with adult shoplifters with children. Difficult to formulate a nationwide shoplifter apprehension policy. Legal/practical implications require local detention/apprehension standards. Cannot afford to let local police sort-it-out after a family theft apprehension. Decisions relating to the prosecution of a family of shoplifters requires caution. The criminal justice system can expose a retailer to detention/arrest liability. Shoplifter's rights often get top priority during the judicial process. Other Adult Shoplifters Related Podcasts Juvenile Shoplifting Until Adults Throw Red Bull Cans at Cashier 10 Things Loss Prevention Agents want Shoplifters to Know  10 Things Shoplifters Don’t Want You to Know Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Juvenile Shoplifting - Petty Theft with Low Risk of Incarceration Juveniles working gangster-style with adults makes crime a felony Adults directing children to steal $350 of Red Bull Energy Drinks Adult parents throw 12oz cans at a clerk escalating to a robbery Organized Retail Thieves rented a U-Haul Van to Steal Red Bull Podcast Time Stamps: 00:50 -- episode 44 podcast begins with security expert Chris McGoey 01:00 -- AM/PM Convenience Store video caught juvenile shoplifting in the act 01:30 -- Watch the mother attempt to distract the cashier from seeing the theft 02:50 -- Watch the father throw 12oz Red Bull cans at cashier aids kids to escape 03:20 -- Father's use of force escalates juvenile shoplifting to felony robbery 04:40 -- Red Bull Energy Drink is a hot Organized Retail Crime theft item 05:35 -- Organized thieves clean out entire shelves to sell on the black market 07:00 -- Organized Retail Crime is a multi-billion dollar loss for the retail industry Juvenile Shoplifting of Red Bull Video (starts after a short delay) Link to YouTube video Juvenile Shoplifting Training by Disgraceful Parents Children learn what they hear and see especially the parents' gangster lifestyle These children are learning not to respect people, the law, and rules of society These children are taught that use-of-force and intimidation is like a game Many adult career criminals say they started with juvenile shoplifting Petty theft is often overlooked by the justice system as a phase of growing up Our future depends on parents raising productive and law-abiding children Juvenile shoplifting escalates to fraud, burglary, robbery, assault, and worse Law enforcement and juvenile courts intervene when parents fail in their duty Juvenile shoplifting petty theft is charged as burglary if adults aid and abet Bad parent role models, bad friends, early incarceration sets the path for life Organized Retail Crime (ORC) Use Juvenile Shoplifting Retail loss prevention agents see adults using kids as shields to shoplift Store personnel need training on how to approach and deter organized thieves Organize Retail Crime (ORC) prefer big box stores with poor customer service Loss Prevention door-greeters are successful in preventing cart push-outs ORC shoplifting crews from foreign countries plagued cities then move on ORC work in teams and often clean out entire shelf-stock of targeted items Stolen items sold at black market stores, restaurants, bars, and swap meets Black market easier now with illicit online sales on eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Organized Retail Crime is a multi-billion dollar loss to retailers every year Big box store loss prevention has partnered with police to arrest theft crews ORC sting-operations and legislation enacted to prosecute ORC leaders Common high-theft items by ORC shoplifters: Red Bull Energy Drinks Razors and blades Over-the-counter pain medication Baby formula and diapers Batteries Pregnancy test kits Teeth whitening strips Tide laundry detergent Diabetic test strips Allergy medication Condoms Related Juvenile Shoplifting Podcasts 10 Things Loss Prevention Agents want Shoplifters to Know 10 Things Shoplifters Don’t Want You to Know Loss Prevention Procedures Reduce Liquor Wine Store Theft Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index

Robbery Homicide of a Tampa Florida Convenience Store Owner How mom and pop stores and small budgets prevent armed robbery? How to reduce the robbery-homicide risk in a high-crime neighborhood? Store Owner Killed During Armed Robbery in Tampa Florida Interview by Tony Marrero with The Tampa Bay Times. Podcast Time Stamps: 00:40 -- Show introduction to Crime School Security Expert Chris McGoey 03:40 -- Interview begins with Tony Marrero at Tampa Bay Times newspaper 05:40 -- In 2011 and 2017, same-store owner confronted robbers and was shot 06:50 -- What can mom and pop stores do to prevent armed robbery violence? 08:00 --  Neighborhood exhibited high-crime posture with bars on windows 09:20 -- Store needed security bars on openings, and windows blocked with signs 11:20 -- Do bullet-resistant barriers prevent violence like robbery homicide? 15:45 -- Video of 2011 robbery of the 29th Street Store is available to view 17:15 -- Convenience store chains use time-delay drop-safes to support cash control 18:15 -- Hard to get store operators not to resist during robbery homicide threat 20:30 -- High-crime neighborhoods need retail stores but cost more to secure https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuMP0zXyaq4&feature=emb_title Beloved convenience store owner fights with robbers. Is shot and killed!Tweet This Robbery Homicide Crime Risk Preventive Steps Ask the local police for help in evaluating business crime risk at your location Evaluate prior crime risk, neighborhood crime, and quality of escape routes Limit hours of operation for isolated stores in residential neighborhoods Maximize visibility in and out of the store by keeping windows clear of signs Multiple clerks on duty may prevent some robberies, but not always Use a time-delay drop safe in high crime stores to help reduce cash on hand Implement and enforce strict cash handling policies to limit available cash Don't accept bills larger than $20 and let customers see bills being dropped Use door, window, and drop safe signage to support your cash handling policies Use video surveillance cameras as a robbery deterrent and training aid Get robbery prevention training and teach staff to act safely during a robbery Don't argue or fight with armed robbers. Keep the robbery transaction short Having in-store weapons increases the chance of robbery homicide for everyone Fighting with armed robbers for their gun increases robbery homicide risk After risk assessment, develop a comprehensive security plan to reduce risk Other Robbery Homicide Related Podcasts Restaurant Robbery Prevention in Houston Fast Food Security – Violent Crime at Quick Service Restaurants Convenience Store Robbery Cash Handling Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Loss Prevention Procedures are the Glue that Prevents Retail Theft Employee theft is always the most likely suspect in large inventory loss Shoplifting loss is the most controllable expense but it needs a plan Loss prevention procedures reduce employee theft and shoplifting Loss Prevention Procedures with Reduce Employee Theft and Shoplifting Losses Interview by Mike Bederka with Small Business Smarts Podcast Time Stamps: [02:30] -- Retail security consultant can help design loss prevention procedures [03:15] -- Interview begins with Mike Bederka at Small Business Smarts [03:30] -- Employee theft and shoplifting account for most inventory loss [04:30] -- Existing staff not always suitable following a large inventory loss [05:20] -- Many owners feel they cannot control chronic shoplifting [06:30] -- 99% of customers act similarly while shopping; Shoplifters do not [07:20] -- How can a retail stores eliminate shoplifting blind-spots [08:58] -- Excellent customer service is best  solution to thwart shoplifters [10:00] -- Watch for areas frequently used by shoplifters for product staging [11:05] -- Genuinely greet every customer by looking at them in the eye [11:35] -- Keep all merchandise "faced" on the shelves to spot missing bottles [12:35] -- Some liquor store serial shoplifters always steal the same items [15:15] -- Best run stores train and enforce detailed loss prevention procedures [16:05] -- Employee thieves like to blame bad inventory loss on shoplifters Podcast about preventing employee theft and shoplifting lossTweet This Loss Prevention Procedures Cut Inventory Loss Liquor, wine, spirits, and beer superstores as large as 25,000 square feet People under 21 years are sometimes excluded from browsing in a store High retail prices make bottles of liquor, wine, and spirits a theft target Loss Prevention Procedures are your tools to reduce inventory shrinkage Procedures need to be clearly defined, well-articulated and enforced High standards in hiring, training, and closely supervising employees is required Holding employees accountable for accurately following procedures is key Loss prevention procedures provide the audit trail needed to track performance Inventory control requires consistent execution of loss prevention procedures Shoplifting occurs in a store you own, control, and set the rules of engagement Shoplifting occurs when liquor store staff are passive and inattentive Well-organized liquor wine spirits specialty store displays help spot bottle loss Technology is the back up not a replacement for good loss prevention procedures Related Loss Prevention Procedures Articles & Podcasts Convenience Store Security and Loss Prevention Briefing 10 Things Loss Prevention Agents want Shoplifters to Know 10 Things Shoplifters Don’t Want You to Know Shoplifting Advice: Retail theft of merchandise Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Restaurant Robbery Prevention - What are Key Robbery Factors? Fast food, quick service, on major thoroughfares, open late at night Source of cash, easy access, good escape routes, cooperative cashiers Houston Restaurant Robbery Pattern Along Major Thoroughfares in April 2017 Interview by Andrew Kragie with the Houston Chronicle newspaper Podcast Time Stamps: [00:40] -- Introduction by Crime School show host Chris McGoey [03:58] -- Restaurant robbery prevention interview begins with Andrew Kragie [04:40] -- Restaurant robbery prevention - nature of the premises and location [05:15] -- Why do robbers target fast-food and casual restaurants? [06:25] -- Restaurant robbers have a profile and foreseeable method [07:00] -- Restaurant robbery often serial robbers who favor certain chains [07:45] -- Robbers will return to the same chain restaurant after a big score [08:20] -- Robbers like easy access, available cash, and good escape routes [09:00] -- Most robberies in Houston are at highways and major thoroughfares [11:40] -- Restaurant take-over robberies happen less often due to risk [12:25] -- Subway Restaurant is most robbed fast-food chain says Houston PD [15:20] -- Video surveillance cameras should be highly-visible for deterrence [17:40] -- Good cash control practices is critical using a drop safe for large bills Why are restaurants in Houston Texas prime robbery targets?Tweet This Subway Restaurants are Often Robbed due to Small Size and Available Cash Restaurant Robbery Prevention Security Plan Conduct a robbery risk assessment of the nature of the restaurant and location Partner with local police in property assessment and crime data analysis Review robbery history at the location and nearby for trends and patterns Evaluate robbery trends by month, day of the week, and time of day Analyze every robbery incident for the method of operation, access, and escape Review money handling policies and reduce available cash to minim level Use a timed-delay drop safe and immediately deposit all large bills Keep a minimum amount of cash on hand at night and let the world know it Trained all cashiers in cash handling techniques and enforce high standards Use highly-visible video surveillance cameras and signage as a deterrence Provide good supervision of seating area, parking lot, and drive-thru lanes Train all personnel in restaurant robbery prevention safety and security Related Restaurant Robbery Prevention Articles and Podcasts Fast Food Security – Violent Crime at Quick Service Restaurants Armed Robbery and Homicide at Wendy's Armed Robbery and Homicide at Burger King Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email     213-537-3505     Twitter

Fast Food Security is Necessary at Some Quick Service Restaurants  Crime risk factors: Urban location, quick access, and late-night hours Prior crime history and nature of the premises will determine crime risk No Fast Food Chain is Immune to Violent Crime Interview by Nick Rose with VICE Media Montreal, QC, Canada Podcast Time Stamps: [00:40] -- Show introduction - Fast Food Security under fire. [03:50] -- Interview begins with Nick Price [04:35] -- It's incorrect to assume that all fast-food restaurants are dangerous [04:45] -- Crime factors: Location, urban area, 24-hr, major thoroughfares [05:30] -- Fast food security focus on seating area, drive-thru, and parking lots [06:30] -- People like to hang out in well-lighted places with restroom facilities [07:15] -- Quick access and extended hours affect the violent crime rate [08:00] -- Nightclub closing drive traffic to Quick Service Restaurants at 2:00am [09:00] -- Fast food security plan crime risk assessment at high-crime locations [10:00] -- Change the nature of the QSR restaurant to reduce the crime risk [11:45] -- QSR Employees and managers not trained to handle crisis situations [13:30] -- Not all fast food restaurants are dangerous as the media would tell us [16:40] -- Frightened employees and managers at high crime locations Why do fast-food chains have such a high violent crime rate?Tweet This Fast Food Security Plan Make a crime risk assessment to determine what is causing high-crime Review police calls-for-service, crime incident reports, and security reports Evaluate trends and patterns of criminal activity by day, time, and activity Change the nature of the premises, as needed, to control criminal activity Add better supervision to the seating area, parking lots. and drive-thru lanes Focus first on-peak hours of activity and conditions affecting it Partner with local police to address criminal gangs or heavy loitering Consider operating drive-thru only late at night as an option High-crime, high-risk locations should be audited more often Related Fast Food Security Articles & Podcasts Crime Risk Factor – Nature of the Premises Fast Food - QSR Restaurant Security Solutions Armed Robbery Homicide at Wendy's Robbery Homicide at Burger King Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email   213-537-3505   Twitter

Hotel Room Security Plan to Protect Valuable Items Assume that in your absence a hotel room is not secure. Leave valuable items at home or have a plan to protect them. You Can't Assume that an Unoccupied Hotel Room is Totally Secure Interview by Marissa Laliberte with Reader's Digest. Podcast Time Stamps: [02:25] -- Hotel room security - Interview begins with Reader's Digest. [03:40] -- There's no guarantee that your hotel room will be secure. [04:45] -- Electronic devices are high-risk for loss and ID theft. [06:30] -- Theft of belongings can leave you stranded without a backup plan. [07:30] -- If ID, credit cards, and airline tickets were stolen, could you recover? [08:45] -- Where do you hide things in a hotel room that are deemed safe? [09:00] -- Do you believe that the hotel room safe is secure for valuables? [10:00] -- If you can't afford to lose it, don't leave it unsecured in a hotel room. Hotel room theft can make you angry and then strandedTweet This Hotel Room Security Plan to Prevent Loss or Recover Play "what-if" all necessary travel credentials were stolen? How long would it take you to recover from the loss and get back home? Make a detailed hotel room security plan before your next trip. Create backups of critical items and leave them with a relative or friend. Store a scanned copy of a cloud-server that you can retrieve remotely. A hotel room security plan gets cash and credit cards within 24-hours. Your hotel room security plan starts before you leave home or it's too late. Related Hotel Room Security Articles & Podcasts Travel Security Plan – Safe While Abroad Hotel Motel Security Advice for Travelers Learn About Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert's Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases Biography of Chris E. McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Episode Index About Crime School Podcast Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505   Twitter

Safe living alone is taking charge of your environment and lifestyle. Millions of people are safe living alone because they plan it that way. Safe living alone requires an intentional security vigilance and mindset. Most people living alone build a safety network of friends and neighbors. Safe Living Alone Requires the Same Security Vigilance and Mindset Interview by Emily Bell with Zillow magazine. Podcast Time Stamps: [00:40] -- CrimeSchool.com/38 show introduction and initial thoughts. [01:58] -- Interview about safe living alone with Emily Bell at Zillow. [02:45] -- Location of the residence is a factor that determines crime risk. [03:20] -- Type of housing and density affects crime risk. [04:00] -- On large rental housing properties most people appear as strangers. [04:45] -- Safe living alone involves intentional control over the environment. [05:20] -- Lifestyle choices make a difference in crime risk and safe living alone. [06:25] -- Most crime victims involving strangers were not paying attention [09:00] -- Should people pretend to others that they are not living alone? [09:35] -- Advantage to safe living alone is being in charge of environments. [10:30] -- Level of awareness when out in public makes a difference to safety. [11:20] -- Looking down at smartphones too often compromises awareness. [14:00] -- Smartphone apps will not help during a physical confrontation. [15:00] -- Safe living alone requires a security plan for being able to see at night. [16:00] -- Should women carry pepper-spray for self defense against assailants? The best home security phone app is between your earsTweet This Safe Living Alone Security Plan Tips Do crime risk research for a location before selecting a residence. Higher floor apartment units limit criminal access from the ground level. Develop a network of family, friends, and neighbors to support you. Call on this network to stand by while repairmen are in your home. A security plan and safe routines will reduce exposure to crime risk. Ask for help to test the quality of doors, locks, and window access points. Make sure rental housing units replaced or re-keyed all door locks. Lock doors, windows, and use an alarm system every time you go out. Use light timers to simulate occupancy or if planning to return at night. Be on high-alert outside your apartment or vehicle door and scan area. Carry a flashlight if often out at night and need to walk in dark areas. Don't use full name on a mailbox if it describes a woman living alone. Be sure telephone answering machine doesn't announce alone status. Beware of social media postings that identify location or living alone status. Never open your door to strangers without knowing who is on the other side. Rely on your fear instinct and investigate or avoid suspicious circumstances. Plan your movements day and night and make contingency plans to be safe. Related Safe Living Alone Podcasts Home Security Burglars, Robbers, Safe Rooms 10 Reasons Why Burglars Choose Your Home Home Invasion Robbery Scotty McCreery American Idol Star Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email  213-537-3505  Twitter

ATM Smartphone App Promises Convenience, not Safety. Major US banks move towards card-free ATM  access. ATM Smartphone App replaces the plastic access card. Will this make ATM use safer for us or just for the bank? A phone app makes you look at two screens now instead of one Interview by Aaron Smith with CNN Money. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:50] -- Interview begins with Aaron Smith - CNN Money. [02:00] -- Must login to ATM Smartphone app to obtain new account code. [02:12] -- Customer must enter 8-digit App code and PIN code into ATM. [02:59] -- Banks are concerned with losses from fraudulent ATM card use. [03:40] -- Physical robbery risk in front of ATM machine is unchanged. [04:40] -- ATM Smartphone App may give a false sense of security. Will a smartphone app keep us safe at the ATM?Tweet This ATM Smartphone App - No Personal Safety Features Yet Must own an updated smartphone and be tech-savvy to use the App. A smartphone App does not lower robbery risk at ATM machines. ATM robbers don't care how you get the machine to spit out cash. Need to enter an 8-digit smartphone account code into the ATM keypad. Keypad entry errors can cause more delays than the current card system. We still need to enter a PIN code when prompted by the ATM machine. We still need to view the ATM screen menu to make transaction selections. Smartphone App requires you to focus on two devices instead of one. Robbers might prefer that you use an ATM Smartphone App. ATM robbers can steal your smartphone phone as well as your cash. ATM robbers stealing smartphones will inhibit fast 911 call reporting. ATM Smartphone App Future Opportunities It should greatly reduce the risk of fraud losses for the major banks. The adoption of NFC* could shorten the time in front of the ATM machine. A bio-metric eye scan should reduce keypad or screen interface time. NFC and bio-metrics could drastically shorten time at ATM Machines. * NFC - Near Field Communication - ATM machines will recognize your phone when in close proximity or by tapping an ATM sensor. Related ATM Smartphone App Articles and Podcasts ATM Security - 10 Things ATM Robber Don't Want Victims to Know Bank ATM Machine Late Night Use Advice Article  Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email  213-537-3505  Twitter

Home Security Alarm Best Practices Buy only the home alarm features that you really need. Buy the alarm system that you will use every day. Buy a quality home alarm system and only cry once. Use a local alarm installer for access to service and repairs. Alarm Central Station Monitoring Hiccups Interview by Grant Clauser with The Wirecutter. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:00] -- Misconceptions about home alarm system being burglar-proof. [03:05] -- Interview begins with Grant Clouser at The Wirecutter. [03:50] -- Home Security Alarm is a box with circuit boards and wires. [06:15] -- Alarm sensors monitor every window, door, and interior space. [10:00] -- Quality of alarm components can vary so beware of discounts. [11:00] -- Home security alarm systems have a high false-alarm rate. [12:30] -- Police respond to 95% false alarms. Will issue citations for abuse. [13:50] -- Hire a local good installer that offers repair and maintenance. [17:25] -- How reliable are the inexpensive wireless alarm systems? [18:30] -- How can you evaluate the quality of alarm monitoring services? [20:45] -- Home security alarm component with greatest crime deterrent. [23:20] -- Quality infra-red motion sensors allow walk-testing coverage. [24:15] -- Be an educated consumer to avoid alarm system sales fraud. Install a quality home alarm system and only cry onceTweet This Home Security Alarm System Tips 60% of burglars will bypass a home with alarm signs.* DIY self-installed alarms have a higher false alarm rate. Some unsecured wireless systems can be hacked. Wireless DIY alarms are the best fit for small apartments. Beware of door-to-door alarm system salesmen. Many alarm salesmen are not trained as security specialists. Read the fine-print in alarm monitoring contracts. Make a commitment to use your alarm system every day. Keep your emergency phone contact list up to date. The use of an alarm system will soon become a habit. Periodically test different door and window alarm sensors. Call your central station contractor and request a live sensor test. Teach your children how to use the home security alarm. Ask your alarm contractor to make a periodic system inspection. * 2012 Alarm Industry Research and Educational Foundation Study Related Home Security Alarm Podcasts Home Security Burglars, Robbers, Safe Rooms 10 Reasons Why Burglars Choose Your Home Home Invasion Robbery Scotty McCreery American Idol Star Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert's Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Convenience Store Security & Loss Prevention Challenges  Big three: Armed Robbery; Employee Theft; and Shoplifting. Employee theft is the greatest profit killer in C-Stores. Shoplifting is the second biggest cause of inventory loss. This Liquor Store is a Robbery Magnet Convenience Store News Magazine interview by Tammy Mastroberte. Podcast Time Stamps: [03:15] -- Interview begins with Convenience Store News Magazine. [03:20] -- Big three: Armed Robbery; Employee Theft; and Shoplifting. [04:25] -- 2500 sq.ft. box. It should be easy to control access, and inventory [06:35] -- Four main categories for providing adequate c-store security. [08:00] -- Employee theft is the greatest loss factor for last 40 years. [12:15] -- Dishonest employees learn to bypass technology deterrents. [15:25] -- Detailed shift training, accuracy, and accountability are critical. [25:00] -- Strict cash control at all times is greatest robbery deterrent. [27:00] -- Time delay safe; Drop-safe; Video surveillance with monitor display [30:00] -- Robbers talk about easy targets and best store chains to rob. Podcast about Convenience Store Loss Prevention and SecurityTweet This Convenience Store Security and Loss Prevention Convenience store security store design including crime risk analysis. Well-lighted exterior and highly-visible store interior are beneficial. Use security hardware and equipment to support design flaws. Liberal use of cash policy signs and decals for robbery prevention. Hire employees that are honest, capable, and accountable. Not all new hires have dexterity, speed, and accuracy for c-stores. Train with clearly defined and articulated procedures. Insist that every shift employee follows identical procedures. Audit some product or procedure every shift, every day. Rotate employees to compare shift sales and product movement. Convenience store security should be baked-in not layered on top. Convenience store loss prevention is a seamless part of a daily routine. Related Convenience Store Security Links Convenience Store Robbery and Cash handling. Gas Station Security - Car Burglary Sliders. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert's Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris E. McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Episode Index About Crime School Podcast Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Comic Con security plan requires creativity and attitude in  San Diego. Comic book characters, superheroes, villains, and zombies. Downtown San Diego Convention Center location. High foot-traffic tourist area co-mingles cars, trucks, trains. Adjacent to Gaslamp Entertainment District and bars. Costumed characters carry real and realistic fake weapons. Comic Con Security Captures a Zombie Interview with KNX Radio 1070am Los Angeles Show Host Tom Reopelle. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:30] -- Special events usually held in contained areas with access control. [02:05] -- Special event security needs to separate vehicles from pedestrians. [03:00] -- World mass murder incident awareness for Comic Con Security. [05:10] -- Interview Tom Reopelle KNX Radio 1070am Los Angeles. [05:50] -- Comic Con Security versus costumed Super Heroes and Zombies. [06:00] -- Costumed characters carry weapons and interact with them. [07:30] -- Fear that strict Comic Con Security will change the fun-factor. [08:00] -- Co-mingle trucks, cars, and trains with 200,000 pedestrians. [08:45] -- San Diego Police will tag and zip-tie both fake and real weapons. [09:25] -- Comic Con Security plan based on incident response scenarios. [10:30] -- Terrorist win if stricter security changes the nature of Comic Con. [11:15] -- Police respond to unusual noises, activities, screams, and reports. [12:00] -- Extra first-responders are staged nearby for fast response. Super Heroes, villains, and zombies need security at Comic ConTweet This Comic Con Security Plan Challenges High-profile convention event may attract terrorist and mass murder. Recent terrorist attacks in London and Manchester raise the alert level. Downtown San Diego location is a high traffic tourist area. Car, trucks, trains, and pedestrians co-mingle over a weekend. 200,000 comic fans attend, many in costume and character makeup. Superheroes and villains wear costumes carrying realistic weapons. Some costumed guests act-out aggressively in fantasy role-playing. Party atmosphere and alcohol service in nearby Gaslamp bars. Police and security must balance response and attitude to an event. Should police ban toy weapons or embrace the playful props? San Diego Police and Comic-Con Security to tag & zip-tie weapons. High-alert to vehicle attacks like Nice, London, and New York City. Many convention activities occur on public streets late into the night. Related Crime School Podcasts Nightclub Security - San Francisco Gay Pride Parade. Soft Targets - How can they prevent mass shootings? Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the 113-page book written by Security Expert Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email     213-537-3505     Twitter

Do nightclubs have premises liability for mass shootings? Nightclub Security Liability Elements: A legal duty to make the nightclub reasonably safe. The knowledge that violent crime was reasonably foreseeable. Security was not reasonable or adequate, under the circumstances. The injury was caused by negligence and breach of duty. Nightclub Security with Highly-Visible Bouncers Interview with Business Insurance magazine reporter Rob Lenihan. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:15] -- Already talk of lawsuits about Orlando nightclub security liability. [01:35] -- Aurora, CO mass shooter civil trial has returned a defense verdict. [03:35] -- Interview with Business Insurance magazine and Rob Lenihan. [04:20] -- Non-lawyer definition of the elements of nightclub security liability. [05:58] -- What legal basis for premises liability at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando. [07:15] -- Nightclub security liability seeks reasonable standard of care. [08:10] -- A reasonable nightclub security plan is based on a risk assessment [09:40] -- Adequate security is based on a comprehensive security plan. [10:25] -- Reasonableness test for adequacy is based on a standard of care. [11:15] -- Negligent nightclub operators fail to provide adequate security. [12:15] -- Successful lawsuits identify a correlation to negligent operations. [14:00] -- There is a step by step process how to assess and respond to risk. [15:45] -- Mass shooters seek maximum publicity from the media. [17:30] -- How to stop shootings: Gun control; Anti-terrorism; FBI watch-list [18:30] -- I predict civil litigation will argue Orlando nightclub security liability. Do nightclubs have premises liability for mass shootings?Tweet This Nightclub Security Liability Checklist Did a club evaluate the nature of the nightclub venue? Did a club analyze the prior crime-history and police call? Did a club evaluate the location, traffic, and demographics? Did a club consider the relative crime risk assessment based on evaluation? Did a club develop a comprehensive security plan based on risk? Did a club comply with laws, regulations, and standards? Did a club partner and fully cooperate with law enforcement? Did a club hire, train, and supervise adequate personnel? Did a club modify the nature of premises as conditions required? Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download 113-page eBook written by Crime School host Chris McGoey Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Nightclub security plan after Orlando massacre Are nightclub security plan upgrades needed for LGBT Pride week? What can San Francisco club owners do to enhance security? Should nightclub owners worry about a copycat incident? San Francisco Police Highly-Visible at LGBT Gay Pride Parade Interview with San Francisco Chronicle newspaper. Reporter Aidin Vaziri. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:20] -- Gay Pride (LGBT) weekend starts June 25, 2016 in San Francisco [01:50] -- This year LGBT parade joins with Black Lives Matter movement. [03:10] -- Interview begins with San Francisco Chronicle newspaper reporter. [04:00] -- What should nightclub owners do in light of the Orlando massacre? [05:00] -- No trend or pattern where or when next mass shooting will occur. [06:00] -- Parade dynamic may change with Black Lives Matter movement. [07:20] -- Nightclub security plan must increase vigilance at the front door. [08:20] -- San Francisco Police will be out in force and highly-visible. [09:00] -- Police have met with parade organizers and nightclub owners. [09:40] -- Will mass shooters are deterred by more security staff at the door [11:15] -- Arming all security staff in clubs is not likely to happen soon. [12:45] -- Special response training needed for a nightclub security plan. [13:15] -- Nightclub owners need a response to "what if" questions. [14:40] -- New dynamic requires personal alertness at all public venues. Should San Francisco nightclub owners worry about a copycat massacre?Tweet This San Francisco LGBT Parade and Celebration Gay Pride parade 2016 is expected to draw one-million people. The celebration moves between Civic Center and the Castro district. Day-long celebration and mixing of political values is a security challenge. Police hope for peaceful demonstrations and protests. The usual amount of disruption and disorderly conduct is expected. Due to the crowd, theme, and alcohol service, there will be some fights. Some injuries and medical emergencies are anticipated. Gun violence and mass murder have not been a major threat. A few people were shot in 2013 and 2015 at LGBT Pride events. SFPD will increase foot patrols and have a highly-visible presence. Law enforcement is relying on each nightclub security plan. Nightclub Security Plan for Gay Pride Celebration FBI and San Francisco Police have met with parade organizers. Saturday is nightclub night South of Market and in the Castro. Streets, nightclubs, and bars will be filled with people. Police have met with clubs about a nightclub security plan. Police planning is largely about crowd control and response. The Orlando Nightclub Massacre is on everyone's mind. Police will be out in force to prevent a copycat mass shooter. A city must rely heavily on the private nightclub security plan. Nightclubs must hire and train adequate staff to control conduct. The nightclub security plan must address the ve shooter response. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email     213-537-3505     Twitter

Soft targets are open to the public and often unprotected Soft targets are public and private venues with easy access. Soft targets have few restrictions and relaxed rule enforcement. They lack active supervision and immediate forceful response. Most Public Settings Soft Targets Soft targets, are they a factor related to mass shootings? Interview with reporter Michael Hernandez with the Anadolu Agency. Podcast Time Stamps: [02:33] -- Media questions about what should be done about mass shootings. [02:45] -- Do mass shootings occur more often at soft targets? [04:00] -- Interview with reporter Michael Hernandez begins. [05:00] -- Soft targets vary by degree, business type, and location. [06:15] -- Nightclub restrict access and act as gatekeepers. [07:00] -- Always a sliding scale of soft targets evolving to hard targets. [08:30] -- International airports are harder targets due to police presence. [09:05] -- How do you prevent a mass murder at a soft target? [12:00] -- Mass shootings require a forceful law enforcement response. [13:15] -- Ongoing political argument to restrict access to assault rifles. [13:25] -- We need a lawful mandate to identify those planning mass murder. How can a small business prevent mass shootings?Tweet This Soft Targets Transition to Hard Targets Businesses begin to add layers to their security plan. Adjust business hours to limit access. Add barriers, limit available entry doors. Add better lighting, video cameras, door hardware. Add restrictive policy, procedures, rules. Add personnel to monitor or limit access. Add perimeter surveillance for early intervention. Security Plan is Important for Soft Targets Start a dialog at your company about workplace violence potential. Do you have a security plan to address violence and active shooters? Make it a priority to evaluate the nature of your business. Make it a priority to conduct a crime risk assessment. Develop a security plan to address the risk assessment findings. Follow through and execute a training program for all employees. Update: Istanbul Airport Terrorist Attack Ataturk airport is an example of an outer soft target and porous security. Airports need perimeter traffic to flow well to avoid bottlenecks. Large bottlenecks of people and cars create more security issues. Airport security design hardens the target in layers as you move inside. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris E. McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Episode Index About Crime School Podcast Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505     Twitter

Nightclub security prevents reasonably foreseeable crime Nightclub security is not currently designed to: Foresee and prevent terrorist attacks; Foresee and prevent planned mass murder; Defend against assault rifles and handguns; Stop mentally ill radicalized men willing to die. Pulse Nightclub - Deadliest Mass Shootings in the U.S. Mass shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida on June 12, 2016. Orange County Registry Newspaper asks about nightclub security. Interview with Reporter Tony Saavedra. Podcast Time Stamps: [00:40] -- Largest mass shooting in modern history of United States. [01:20] -- ISIS inspired homegrown US terrorist. [02:00] -- Common pattern in mass shootings incidents. [03:50] -- Interview with Tony Saavedra OC register newspaper. [04:00] -- Can mass murder in US nightclubs be prevented? [08:00] -- Nightclub security is not like airport security. [10:20] -- Police officer outside of nightclub could not stop shooter. [14:20] -- What's the solution to mass murder by terrorists. [16:10] -- Should nightclub security allow more people to carry guns? [23:15] -- Mass shootings require a tactical law enforcement response. [26:50] -- Is deadly force going to become the new standard response? [27:25] -- Most commercial spaces in US are soft targets. [30:50] -- One common denominator is Islamic radicalization by internet. [31:00] -- Gun control debate hampers progress to real legislation. Businesses are not equipped to foresee and prevent terrorist attacks.Tweet This Nightclub Security at the Pulse Pulse could not reasonably foresee that a mass shooting would occur. Nightclub security plan posted an off-duty police officer outside. Reasonable attempts to engage the shooter were tried and failed. The attack at the Pulse nightclub was sudden using overwhelming force. What Needs to be Done? Stop ISIS and other terrorists groups abroad. Bridge the education divide between Islam and radical factions. Take the handcuffs off investigators and intelligence agencies. Tighten controls on immigration and the movement of radical groups. Remove politics from gun control and start real debates. Gather the best minds on these gun issues to study and propose policy. Gather the top terrorism experts to study and propose policy. Gather lawmakers to streamline our ability to target known threats. It's time to get tough and be more aggressive toward domestic terrorism. Educate the public about how they can participate in making places safe. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris E. McGoey Email   213-537-3505    Twitter

Vehicle Theft is Rising after Years of Decline Auto theft prevention requires a comprehensive security plan. Motor vehicles were stolen every 46 seconds in the U.S. in 2014. 700,000 cars, trucks, and motorcycles were stolen. Vehicle theft loss estimates $4.5 Billion per year. 2013 Top Stolen Cars List Podcast Time Stamps: [01:05] -- Vehicle theft is a lucrative business for organized crime. [01:50] -- FBI Uniform Crime Reports - 2014 - Statistics about vehicle theft. [03:10] -- Develop an auto theft prevention security plan. [04:00] -- Top ten stolen vehicles. FBI UCR 2014. [06:15] -- Peak vehicle theft year was 1991. [07:00] -- Transponder technology aids police in recovering stolen vehicles. [08:35] -- Most active months for vehicle theft. [09:15] -- High risk behavior increases auto theft risks. [11:15] -- Highest vehicle theft rate in seaport and Mexican border cities [13:25] -- One-third of vehicles stolen had keys inside. [15:20] -- Vehicle theft arrest rate is low especially in big cities. [17:05] -- Contents of a car is often the reason for it being stolen. [20:15] -- Rule of thumb and security plan for vehicle contents. [21:10] -- Beware of vehicle navigation system programming. Motor vehicles were stolen every 46 seconds in the US in 2014.Tweet This Auto Theft Prevention - Is our Responsibility 45% of stolen vehicles are never recovered. Only 13% of car thieves are arrested in big cities. 33% of auto theft victims left an ignition key in the vehicle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEsEGvekCrA&feature=emb_title Play Video of Chop Shop Underworld Top Ten States with Most Vehicle Thefts - 2014 California --151,852 Texas -- 68,546 Florida -- 42,579 Washington --30,647 Georgia -- 26,854 Michigan -- 21,157 Ohio -- 18,015 Arizona -- 17,587 Illinois -- 17,451 Missouri -- 16,357 Top Ten States with Fewest Vehicle Thefts - 2014 Vermont -- 244 Wyoming -- 603 Maine -- 799 New Hampshire -- 857 South Dakota -- 1,007 Delaware -- 1,267 North Dakota -- 1,514 Idaho -- 1,661 Alaska -- 1,739 Rhode Island -- 1,833 Top Ten Stolen Vehicles - 2014 Honda Accord Honda Civic Ford Pick-Up Truck Chevy Pick-Up Truck Toyota Camry Dodge Caravan Nissan Altima Acura Integra Nissan Maxima Top Auto Theft Months July August Nationwide Auto Theft Rate (100,000 population) West -- 216.2 South -- 210.3 Midwest -- 181.8 Northeast -- 104.3 Vehicle Types Stolen Most Often Cars -- 74.5% Trucks -- 14.9% Motorcycles & Other 10.6% Highest Risk Cities for Vehicle Theft in US - 2014 San Francisco, CA Bakersfield, CA Stockton, CA Odessa, TX Modesto, CA Spokane, WA Vallejo, CA Seattle, WA Fresno, CA San Jose, CA Auto Theft Prevention Tips (most obvious) Reside in the lowest crime zip-code you can afford. Avoid big cities on a seaport or near a border with Mexico. Park your vehicle inside a locked private garage. Avoid owning a car on the top ten most stolen list. Avoid flashy wheels, accessories, and high-performance parts. Avoid leaving your car in public parking lots for extended periods. Buy good insurance with adequate auto theft coverage. Auto Theft Prevention (next best options) Practice safe car parking and auto theft prevention routines. Always roll up windows and lock vehicle doors. Remove all ignition keys and hidden valet keys. Use fee lots for parking with cashier attendant on duty. Remove items of value inside the car and in plain sight. Lock the car and set a car alarm system every time you park. Use mechanical anti-theft devices to deter & delay theft. Use a transponder tracking device on high-risk vehicles. Remove valuable content and items in plain sight. Remove items with home addresses and personal IDs.

How can Women Prevent Crime and be Reasonably Safe? Women prevent crime by assessing their daily lifestyle. A security plan creates awareness to reduce risky behavior. Women prevent crime by adopting safe routines. Women Prevent Crime by Adopting Safe Routines Interview with Women's World magazine. Writer/editor Hannah Chenoweth. Podcast Time Stamps: [02:12] -- Interview with Hannah Chenoweth from Women's World magazine. [03:00] -- Primary defense tactic for women is reliance on life experience. [04:00] -- Find a safe neighborhood to live will reduce overall crime risk. [05:20] -- We control exposure to crime risk by our behavior and lifestyle. [06:40] -- Research safe destinations for errands, and entertainment. [07:15] -- Develop safe routines for selecting and using parking lots. [10:00] -- Don't rely on phone apps during a confrontation...use your brain. [13:45] -- Play "what if" to determine how you would respond to a threat. [19:00] -- Must trust your instincts about potential threats and react. [23:00] -- Make your home safe from burglars and home invaders. [27:45] -- Your neighbors have a vested interest to protect you. [30:20] -- Develop a family security plan and adopt safe routines.  The best app for crime prevention is not your phone...it's your brain.Tweet This Women Prevent Crime with a Lifestyle Assessment. Evaluate every aspect of your lifestyle for the level of crime risk. Do you live in a safe environment...can you relocate? Do you go to work or school in a safe place? Are there things you can do to improve the safety of your home? Make a list of daily routines, locations, and activities. Do you have common destinations that are unsafe? What steps can you take to reduce your crime risk? Can research and adopt safer destinations for errands? Have a family meeting to discuss safer lifestyle changes. Designing a Security Plan to Fit your Lifestyle. Women prevent crime by choosing a safe neighborhood to live in. Women prevent crime by making their home safe from intruders. Women prevent crime by planning to be safe at every destination. Women prevent crime by being alert to surroundings when out in public. Women prevent crime by walking with intention and awareness. Women prevent crime by trusting their instincts about threats. Women prevent crime by not relying on others to keep them safe. Related Shows about Crime Prevention for Women 10 Reasons Why Burglars Choose Your Home Home Security Burglars, Robbers, Safe Rooms Parking Lot Security – Your Car as a Personal Safe Room Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email   213-537-3505      Twitter  

Shopping Center Security Plan to Prevent Teen Crowds and Fights How to anticipate when large crowds might descend on a mall? How to develop a security plan for teen crowd control? How to plan for an emergency response to social disorder? Shopping Center Security Helpless to Stop Fights. Interview with Shopping Centers Today magazine. Contributing Editor Steve McLinden. Podcast Time Stamps: [00:45] -- Shopping Center Security - Topic introduction crowd control. [01:30] -- Thousands of youths descend on malls and cause violence. [02:40] -- Interview with Shopping Centers Today Magazine Steve McLinden. [05:15] -- How can shopping center security prevent crowd violence? [06:00] -- What factors affect shopping center security and crowd violence? [09:45] -- Is social media a cause of sudden teen crowds and mob violence? [12:20] -- Mall managers must focus on anti-loitering rule enforcement. [17:00] -- Shopping Center Security training on loitering behavior response. [20:00] -- Mall managers must include a security and police response plan. [21:05] -- Shopping Center Security curfew for teens been tried and failed. [26:15] -- Mall managers need more shopping center security plan training. [28:20] -- Shopping Center industry needs emphasis on security planning. Disruptive teen behavior in malls causes good customers to stay away.Tweet This https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEdbP9e1rik&feature=emb_title Play video of Kentucky incident. Shopping Center Security Challenge of Crowd Control Definition: Retail REIT - Shopping Center Real Estate Investment Trust. Teens hanging out at malls is an old problem with a new twist. Social media has driven large groups of teens to gather at malls. A single Tweet or Facebook post can direct teens to a mall hot spot. Social media is used to plan unorganized social disorder rallies. Teens arrive quickly like flash-mobs and overwhelm security and police. Evaluate then Execute a Comprehensive Security Plan Evaluate trends in traffic patterns and prior incidents of violence. Compare recent incidents trends in similar malls in the region. Evaluate mall procedures and responses by mall security and police. Evaluate patterns of teen loitering by day, time, and location. Partner with police to develop a plan to enforce loitering and trespassing. Being vigilant against known teen groups that loiter and disturb. Issue and enforce trespass warnings against know troublemakers. Strict loitering standards and enforcement prevent future incidents. A comprehensive security plan needs to anticipate and respond to a crowd. Monitor social media mentions that advocate social disorder at malls. Seek training on how to anticipate and respond to teen disturbances. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505      Twitter

Mass shootings in America escalated between 2000-2013 FBI study reports 160 incidents, 486 killed, 557 wounded. Has our changing culture created these mass shootings? What can be done to restore our values and attitudes? FBI Active Shooter Study 2000 - 2013 Our guest is a violence threat assessment expert James S. Cawood. Podcast Time Stamps: [03:55] – Mass shootings: mental health, gun control, or immigration. [05:00] – Introduction of threat assessment expert Jim Cawood. [08:20] - Discussion about FBI 2000-2013 active shooter study. [11:00] - Mass shootings don’t seem connected to economic downturn. [11:45] – Mass shootings connected to perception, narcissism, depression. [13:00] - Changing psycho-social forces will affect rate of future incidents. [16:00] - Until San Bernardino majority of mass shootings were not jihad. [06:02] - The majority of mass shootings are committed by lone male shooters. [18:30] – Will future mass shootings involve women or be gender-neutral? [18:40] – Narcissism epidemic causes men to be wounded and reactive. [21:30] – Are mass shootings linked to first-person shooter video games? [25:50] – Is media coverage contributing to mass shootings payoff? [28:35] – Mass shootings are a psychological and sociological issues. FBI active shooters study of 160 incidents, 486 killed, 557 wounded.Tweet This Mass Shootings Facts Mass shootings rose while the single homicide rate has declined last decade. The timing of mass shootings has not coincided with a downturn in the economy. The rhythm of mass shootings involves perception, narcissism, or depression. An expectation of the public is that no mass shootings should occur. Since 2000 American mass shooters have been mostly homegrown. Female mass shootings are rare, but that may change in the future. Being poor or disadvantaged is not an indicator of mass shootings. Video games can produce a pseudo-commando game-score mindset. Some mass killers study past acts of active shooters to beat their score. Mass shootings view infamy as the most important time of their life. Violence occurs in cultures focused on individuals over group collective. About our guest James S. Cawood Jim Cawood is President of Factor One, a California corporation specializing in threat assessment and management, violence risk assessment, behavioral analysis for more than 25 years. He is a practicing security consultant, licensed private investigator, and former police officer. He has successfully assessed and managed over 4500 violence-related cases throughout North America. Mr. Cawood is a graduate of U.C. Berkeley, holds a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from Argosy University, and is a doctoral candidate in Psychology at Northcentral University. He has served on the faculties of Golden Gate University, in their Security Management degree program and the University of California, Santa Cruz extension, teaching Threat Management. Mr. Cawood is currently serving on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management (American Psychological Association). He is the former Association President of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP). Mr. Cawood has earned the Certified Protection Professional (CPP); Professional Certified Investigator (PCI); Physical Security Professional (PSP); Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE); Certified Security Professional (CSP); Certified Professional Investigator (CPI); and a Certified International Investigator (CII). He has written articles and book chapters for various professional publications including Security Management magazine. The original author of A Plan for Threat Management (Chapter 40) of the Protection of Assets Manual. Chapters 24- Personnel Screening and Chapter 32- Arson, Sabotage, and Bomb Threats in the Accident Prevention Manual for Business & Industry- Security Mana...

Active shooter survival favors those prepared to react.  Early awareness of an active shooter increases the margin of safety. A quick threat assessment increases your reaction time to escape. Moving away from the threat reduces your risk of harm. Develop an active shooter survival mindset and security plan. Active Shooter Preparedness can Save Your Life Our guest is a violence assessment expert James S. Cawood. He is President of Factor One. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:15] – Active shooter survival scenario. [02:00] -- What can you do to avoid being a victim. [02:25] – Basic choices are to run, hide or fight. [03:10] – Introduction of violence assessment expert James S. Cawood. [05:10] -- Beginning of active shooter survival discussion. [05:25] – Active shooter mass murder at San Bernardino, California. [05:45] – FBI study on mass murder in United States – 2000-2013. [07:00] -- Active dynamic violence prevention should be our focus. [11:00]– Need for situational awareness training. [11:30] – What does a gunshot sound like? [12:40] – Active shooter survival key is awareness of the space. [14:30] -- Plan where to run for active shooter survival. [16:40] – Only hide if no place to run for active shooter survival. [20:00] – Active shooter survival in first fifteen minutes. [20:40] – Distance and barriers matter to active shooter survival. [21:50] – Hide behind bullet-resistant barriers to buy time. [25:15] – Fight to incapacitate the active shooter. [26:50] – Take Model Mugging training to experience a fight. [28:45] – Active shooters picked soft targets so weapons haven’t mattered. Active shooter preparedness advice to run, hide, or fight.Tweet This https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VcSwejU2D0&feature=emb_title Active Shooter Survival Tips Develop your own active shooter survival security plan. Scan a room. Think about how would you escape from where you are right now. Come up with an active shooter survival plan for home, work, and places you routinely visit. About our Guest James S. Cawood Jim Cawood is President of Factor One, a California corporation specializing in threat assessment and management, violence risk assessment, behavioral analysis, security consulting, and investigations for more than 25 years. He was also a police officer. He has successfully assessed and managed over 4500 violence-related cases throughout North America. Mr. Cawood is a graduate of U.C. Berkeley, holds a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from Argosy University, and is a doctoral candidate in Psychology at Northcentral University. He has served on the faculties of Golden Gate University, in their Security Management degree program and the University of California, Santa Cruz extension, teaching Threat Management. Mr. Cawood is currently serving on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management (American Psychological Association) and is the former Association President of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP). Mr. Cawood has earned the Certified Protection Professional (CPP); Professional Certified Investigator (PCI); Physical Security Professional (PSP); Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE); Certified Security Professional (CSP); Certified Professional Investigator (CPI); and a Certified International Investigator (CII). He has written articles and book chapters for various professional publications including Security Management magazine, as the original author of A Plan for Threat Management (Chapter 40) of the Protection of Assets Manual; Chapters 24- Personnel Screening and Chapter 32- Arson, Sabotage, and Bomb Threats in the Accident Prevention Manual for Business & Industry- Security Management volume; Chapter 32- Security for Safety, Health, and Asset Protection: Management Essentials, 2nd Edition; and a co-authored chapter: Threat Management of Stalking Cases in The Psychology of S...

Gas station security risk from car burglars called sliders. Sliders prey on women and unlocked vehicles at gas stations. Sliders want to snatch purses, wallets, cell phones, laptops. Gas station security flaw creates this opportunity for thieves. The family security plan removes this opportunity from sliders. Gas Station Security Beware of Thieves called Sliders Podcast Time Stamps: [01:30] -- Gas station security precautions begin when you exit your vehicle. [02:15] -- Sliders strike suddenly and are a challenge to gas station security. [03:05] -- View the surveillance video of sliders in action in Houston. [03:50] -- Sliders will drive off in your car if keys are left in the ignition. [04:20] -- Observe customer behavior next time you buy fuel. [05:15] -- Gas Station security - Deters and prevents slider methodology. [06:00] -- Is it a pain to keep doors and windows closed and locked. [06:30] -- Compare to pain of losing your purse, wallet, laptop, cell phone. [07:25] -- My solution to sliders is alertness and a car locking routine. [08:00] -- Discuss your gas station security plan with family and friends. Beware of gas station sneak thieves called 'sliders'.Tweet This Gas Station Security Tips Sliders work mostly at city gas stations, but it can happen anywhere. Thieves target women driving alone at convenience store gas stations. Sliders want purses, wallets, and cell phones unattended on a car seat. Always lock your doors and windows whenever you exit the car. While outside pumping gas, pay attention to other people and cars. Grab and run thieves as these sliders look for the easy target. Teach your family about these safety tips when buying fuel. Develop a routine of locking car doors so it becomes a habit. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email   213-537-3505     Twitter

Nightclub security bouncer job description and security duties. What are the duties of nightclub security and bouncers? Are nightclub security personnel adequately trained? How are club policies and procedures set and enforced? Who determines what level of force is used by bouncers? Nightclub doorman weapons pat-down Yale University staff writer Declan Kunkel interviews Chris McGoey. Yale University will publish this interview in The Politic Newspaper. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:20] – Introduction of Yale University student Declan Kunkel. [01:30] – Nightclub security job description including bouncers. [01:55] – What are the typical doorman duties in a nightclub? [04:28] – What are the typical access control duties in a nightclub. [04:59] - What are typical duties of a nightclub bouncer. [06:00] - Are there any nightclub security training standards? [07:30] - How do nightclub bouncers know when to intervene? [08:40] - Best bouncers are not always large in stature or male. [09:30] - Security and bouncers need clearly defined rules. [11:28] - Nightclub bouncers notice troublemakers right away. [12:00] - What is the liability for criminal acts of patrons and staff. [14:00] - Nightclub security responsibility to remove known threats. [15:20] - Nightclub security biggest mistake is use of excessive force. [16:30] - Nightclub security needs an adequate number of bouncers. [17:50] - How can a nightclub reverse a dangerous reputation? [19:40] – How can a nightclub change the nature of a disorderly club. [21:40] - Every nightclub needs responsible service of alcohol training. [22:35] - Nightclub security high standards hiring, training, supervision. The best nightclub bouncers don't bounce anyone...they talk to people and deescalate behavior.Tweet This Nightclub Security Doorman Duties Positioned at all doors wearing a distinctive uniform. They are well-trained for the post and knows every regulation. Must maintain control of access and club entry lines. ID verification for legal age prior to admission. Verify prior to entry that the person is not obviously intoxicated. Verify that the person is not carrying a weapon or contraband. Use an optional metal detector or pat-down or bag search. Enforce the dress code and refuse objectionable attire. Refuses admission to known troublemakers. Direct communication with bouncers and management. Access and egress control and fire safety duties. Calls the police to report criminal acts, as required. Nightclub Security Bouncer Duties Work primarily inside of a nightclub or at the door. Patrols exterior and parking lot sometimes. Wear a distinctive uniform and is highly visible. Positioned in a room with an unobstructed view. Have adequate staff (e.g. 1-50 ratio), if high-risk. Monitor patron behavior and level of intoxication. Enforce club rules often with early warnings. Removes obnoxious and offensive persons. Always professional when asking patrons to leave. Implement a policy to ban persons who like to fight. Use force only in self-defense or detention for police. Calls the police to enforce criminal acts, as required. Nightclub Security Bouncer Hiring, Training, Supervision Hire doormen and bouncers with the right demeanor for the job. Large men are not the sole basis for security hiring decisions. Hire a diverse staff of different sex, age, and ethnicity. Train in criminal and civil law and standard of care. Frequent training about the use of force and limitations. Frequent practice and scenario drills working as a team. Supervise security closely for compliance with training. Mobile radios and communication aids supervision. Frequent staff meetings with the supervisor to update training. A manager works with the police, as needed, to maintain order. Nightclub Security Bouncer Excessive Use of Forc...

Parking lot security decisions about being safe are initially our responsibility. Where, when, and how we choose to park our vehicle determines what our parking lot security crime risk will be. Keep the line of sight with the main entrance Parking lot security is using your vehicle as a personal safe room. Parking lot security is highest while safe inside your locked car. Parking lot security is most critical while walking outside of a car. Parking lot security is affected most by young male predators. Parking lot security is detecting predators looking for a victim. Parking lot security is being alert to the conditions and risks. Podcast Time Stamps: [01:00] – Customer confrontation questions about parking lot security. [01:40] – Least amount of personal security and control is in a parking lot. [03:00] – Compare the amount of personal security and control to your home. [03:50] – Decisions about our family safety are initially your responsibility. [05:00] – Locking your car doors and windows is the first step. [05:30] – A locked vehicle is a significant barrier from personal assaults. [06:10] – Select a parking space with line-of-sight to destination. [06:40] – Parking lot predators are usually young males. [08:15] – Only leave the safety of a locked car when deemed safe. [08:30] – Conduct your own parking lot security experiment. [09:40] – Watch how retail store customers behave in a parking lot. [10:15] – Consider if this is how parking lot perpetrators view you. [11:10] – Have a family meeting and make a parking lot security plan. [11:50] – Make locking your vehicle doors fist part of your daily routine. Parking lot security decisions about personal safety are initially our responsibility.Tweet This Parking Lot Security Decisions can make you safe If you think about it, we're all strangers in a large parking lot making parking lot security difficult. We are taught to share the space and we give little thought others to walking nearby. Parking lot security is at the highest level while inside your locked vehicle. Pick a parking space with good visibility and line of sight to the store entrance. Only exit the safety of your locked vehicle after first scanning the area for potential threats. The most common parking lot security threat is a male standing or seated nearby watching you. The most critical parking lot security point is at the driver's side door as you enter and exit the car. The crimes of robbery, purse snatch, carjacking, and abduction occur precisely at this point. Test your own parking security experiment Next time you go to a large parking lot, stay seated inside your car and watch customer behavior for about 15 minutes. Imagine that you are a male parking lot predator looking for an easy victim to rob. Use a rating system between 1-5 to score the most likely and least likely victim to attack. Watch people walk to and from their cars totally consumed by their thoughts or talking on their cell phones. Watch people as they approach their car and fumble for their keys. Are they looking around to see if a potential predator is standing or sitting in a car nearby? Did any of these customers spot you sitting alone in your car watching them? Did they turn their backs and attention completely away from you to load their shopping bags into the car? Make note of how children and infants affect the timing of the transition in and out of the vehicle. Observe how easy it would be for you to approach and attack these inattentive customers. Develop your own parking lot security plan for your family based on these observations. For more information on parking lot security Carjacking Robbery @ CrimeSchool.com/20 Carjacking Facts @ CrimeDoctor.com Parking Lot Crime Prevention @ CrimeDoctor.com Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation

Travel security plan will make you safer while abroad. A good security plan anticipates and reduces the risk of loss or harm. The security plan is an emergency document retrieval system. A security plan is home and vehicle protection while abroad. Your security plan is packing smart for international travel. The security plan is control over luggage and documents. A security plan is health management for common ailments. You Must Safeguard Your Passport While Traveling Podcast Time Stamps: [01:30] – International travel requires research and planning. [02:00] – American travel company provides US point of contact. [02:50] – Select an established itinerary in risky locations. [03:40] – United States State Department travel warnings. [04:25] – Pre-pay to reduce need to carry excess cash. [04:58] – Emergency document retrieval plan. [06:56] – What if you lose all your luggage and passport? [08:50] – Advantage of local tour company in emergency. [09:35] – How to recover critical documents and credit card. [10:30] - Place emergency documents in cloud storage. [12:20] – Travel security plan for home and car protection. [14:35] – Make home appear occupied while abroad. [16:20] – Pack smart and travel light internationally. [18:10] – Leave electronic devices at home…Unplug. [19:40] – Carry duplicate copies of critical documents. [22:20] - Divide cash between travelers and pockets. [21:25] – Carry prescription medication in original bottles. [23:05] – Health management is a priority for international travel. [25:30] – Create multiple back-up and contingency plans. Security plan for international travel anticipates the risk of loss or harm.Tweet This Travel security plan to be safe at your destination Research your international travel destination fully. Use a reliable US travel company that communicates well. Pick an established itinerary to eliminate surprises. Prepay most travel expenses to reduce the need to carry cash. Hire local guides to arrange safe lodging and clean restaurants. Use local guides to handle language translations, and transactions. Check the US State Department website for international travel warnings. Obtain the critical address and phone number contacts at home and abroad. Identify emergency medical treatment centers in major cities. Research availability for emergency medical evacuation service. Travel security plan for emergency document retrieval Prepare an emergency contact list at home and at each destination. Prepare a travel schedule itinerary and hotel contact list. Scan all critical travel documents and upload them to cloud storage. Copy credit cards front and back. Copy original medicine prescriptions. Copy eye-glass lens prescription. Pre-authorize expenses for emergency home repairs. Provide house and car keys to a capable guardian. Provide a list of instructions in case of accident or death. Provide a copy of a durable power of attorney for medical care. Provide a copy of a will and estate executor contact info. Set up a password protected cloud storage for document retrieval. Travel security plan for home protection Give a key to a neighbor or house sitter. Home should look occupied during day and night. Maintain routines of occupancy cues. Occasionally park a car in the driveway. Do not stop the newspaper or mail service. Continue to put out garbage for pick up. Continue yard service or snow removal. Ask a neighbor to pick up newspaper, mail or doorknob trash. Don’t advertise on social media that you are abroad. Travel security plan for airport transportation Get a ride to the airport. You'll be too tired to drive. Your car at home means, you're home, to burglars. Don't leave your parking lot entry ticket in the vehicle. Watch your luggage on/off the parking lot shuttle bus.

Carjacking robbery often occurs at the point where you enter or exit your parked vehicle. The carjacker is a young male 90% of the time. The carjacker is often under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The carjacker is usually armed with a gun or a knife. Carjacker prefers a lone victim that's not paying attention. Carjacker often waits nearby within 75 feet. Carjacker will approach the driver's door as you enter. Carjacker will threaten or use force to get your vehicle. Podcast Time Stamps: [00:44] - Carjacking robbery scenario. [01:34] - Carjacking robbery definition and origin of the name. [02:24] - What can be done to prevent becoming a victim of carjacking. [03:00] - Carjacking pattern of selecting vehicle and victim. [04:15] - Carjacker will sometimes wait for the right victim. [04:55] - Carjacker will be close by if you're watching out for him. [05:50] - Reverse engineer the carjacking robbery to prevent it. [06:33] - Recommended carjacking preventive steps. [08:30] - Variables in carjacking scenarios and responses. Carjacking is one of the most dangerous crimes that can occur to a person.Tweet This Carjackers Look for Vulnerable Inattentive Drivers Carjacking Robbery Carjacking robbery is one of the most frightening and dangerous crimes To a person, a family or a business traveler. Carjacking robbery is a crime against a person. By means of force, fear, violence, or intimidation. Carjacking robbery frequency gets buried in the statistics Auto-theft or strong-arm robbery or assault with a deadly weapon. Carjackers are desperate criminals that don't care if they hurt you. Carjacking Dangerous Point of Entry Carjacking incidents often occur at the driver's door. Critical carjacking time is entering and exiting the driver's door. Most carjacking victims say they never saw the robber approaching. Carjacker wants the vehicle key immediately for a quick getaway. Carjacking victims get trapped between the driver's door and seat. A weapon is usually displayed along with a crude threat to use it. An excessive amount of force will attack any resistance. How you react in the first few seconds can be life-changing. Carjacking Robbery Target The target of a carjacking robbery is usually the vehicle. Carjacker just needs transportation. Carjacker needs a vehicle for use in another crime. Sometimes the target of a carjacking is the occupant. The victim goes along with the vehicle. The secondary crime scene that is almost always worse. More on Carjacking Robbery Visit CrimeDoctor.com for an article - Carjacking Facts Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris E. McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Episode Index About Crime School Podcast Connect with Chris McGoey Email    213-537-3505   Twitter

Crime risk factor has a direct correlation to the nature of the premises. Property open to the public operates at greater crime risk. Cash-based late-night businesses have greater crime risk. The nature of the premises may foresee the level of crime risk. This Liquor Store is a Robbery Magnet Podcast Time Stamps: [01:40] - Business owners are reluctant to change the way they operate. [01:58] - Quick-fixes are like Bandaids that need to be reapplied often. [03:00] - Major risk factor is the Nature of the Premises. [03:37] - Examples of different business model effect on crime. [04:56] - Each business type attracts a different type of customer. [05:25] - Restaurant wants to add entertainment and liquor license. [06:55] - Banks offer different level of risk after hours at ATMs. [07:50] - Hotels lease out ballrooms for parties increases assault risk [08:27] - Convenience store check-cashing increases robbery risk. [08:52] - Parking lot use and risk vary through the course of the day. [09:40] - Expected property use versus actual use. [10:20] - Tweaking the nature of the premises and business. [11:10] - Most apartment crime risk can be fixed in the office. [12:05] - Summary of risk factors and an action plan. [13:00] - Failure to correct nature of the premises causes liability. Crime at a business is based, in part, by the nature of the premises.Tweet This Crime Risk Factors There are three primary crime risk factors that should be considered when designing a security plan for a business open to the public. Nature of the premises. Crime Demographics. Location. The property owner and business operator have the most control over the nature of the premises than any other risk factor. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email   213-537-3505   Twitter

Loss Prevention Agents are a surprise to shoplifters when caught. Shoplifters feel that their theft was undetected. Shoplifters thought they were careful not to be spotted. Shoplifters saw no one following before exiting a store. Shoplifters are shocked when loss prevention agents detain them. Shoplifters are Monitored by Video Surveillance Podcast Time Stamps: [00:39] - Shoplifters are surprised when caught. [00:55] - The high cost of shoplifting. [03:00] - Loss Prevention Agents Focus on Shoplifting. [03:30] - Loss Prevention Agents have Special Training. [03:56] - LP Agents Know their Store Inventory. [04:45] - LP Agents Study Shopper Behavior. [06:00] - Loss Prevention Agents Practice Profiling. [07:15] - Loss Prevention Agents use Technology. [08:30] - Loss Prevention Work as a Team. [09:30] - Loss Prevention Train to Detain & Arrest. [10:40] - Loss Prevention Agents Document the Crime. [11:25] - Loss Prevention Agents Facilitate Prosecution [12:48] - Footnote: 27th Annual Retail Theft Survey. 10 Things Retail Store LP Agents Want Shoplifters to Know.Tweet This Retail stores do not want to be in the business of apprehending shoplifters. It is an unfortunate business reality and retailers have now declared war on shoplifting by dispatching an army of loss-prevention agents to combat theft of inventory and fraud losses. Shoplifting losses are a staggering $15-billion dollars every year. Shoplifting costs millions in LP Agent payroll and equipment. Shoplifting is a profit killer that must be controlled. Shoplifting is a major factor in retail store failure. Shoplifting causes the prices of all items to rise. Shoplifting losses contribute to lost jobs. 10 Things Loss Prevention Agents Want Shoplifters to Know: 01 - Retail store Loss Prevention Focus on Shoplifters Their primary job function is to prevent retail inventory loss. So they are focused on you and will detect, deter, or apprehend you to recover the stolen merchandise. 02 - Loss Prevention staff have Special Training It takes special training, dedication, and plenty of on-the-job-experience to become good at detecting shoplifters. The best ones know from experience most of the techniques used by shoplifters and they can spot the behavior even before the theft occurs. 03 - Loss Prevention employees Know their Store Shoplifters are at a disadvantage because a good LP agent has spent thousands of hours roaming the sales floor. They know all the hot spots and the best angles for surveillance. Frequent shoplifters are shocked when they attempt to steal in the wrong store, at the wrong, time, and come up against professional loss prevention agents. 04 - Loss Prevention Agents Study Shopper Behavior After thousands of hours, they become experts at monitoring shopper behavior. A shoplifter if often detected because they don't act like a shopper and are quickly identified as a likely shoplift suspect. 05 - Loss Prevention Agents Practice Profiling Does that surprise you? Not illegal profiling of a protected class, but rather profiling a location within a store, certain behavior, certain techniques and mannerisms that are outside the norm for honest shoppers. Shoplifters often have a distinctive behavioral profile that can be quickly spotted soon after they enter a retail store. 06 - Loss Prevention Agents use Technology Most stores these days have surveillance cameras to track and record the behavior of shoplifters. Shoplifters don't know if someone is watching from a distance possibly using multiple cameras, high-powered binoculars, and recording your criminal acts. LP agents also use communication tools to report your movements and prepare a reception for you when you exit. 07 - Loss Prevention and Store Managers  Work as a Team It's hard to tell who the undercover loss prevention agents are anymore. The best ones seem invisible on the sales floor and don't seem concer...

Convenience store robbery worries late-night retail store operators. Will bad cash handling attract robbers to your store? Does poor cash handling contribute to employee theft? What cash handling best practices will prevent robbery? What tools prevent convenience store robbery and manage cash? Options to safely manage convenience store bank deposits? Poor Cash Control can Attract C-Store Robbers I was interviewed by Pat Pape from C-Store Decisions Magazine.  Podcast Time Stamps: [01:16] - Introduce Convenience Store Decisions writer Pat Pape. [01:37] - Correlation: cash handling and convenience store robbery. [02:15] - Best practice for managing cash in convenience stores. [05:00] - Convenience store robbery is a selection process. [07:00] - Policy: Never accept bills larger than $20 or break large bills. [08:00] - Immediately drop all $20 or larger bills in view of the customer. [11:00] - No c-store should cash large checks as a business practice. [17:18] - Prevent convenience store robbery invest in a cash controller. [22:30] - Thoughts about moving cash between registers and backroom. [27:50] - How, were, and when to safely manage bank deposits. [32:30] - Other convenience store robbery prevention techniques. There is an absolute correlation between cash handling and robbery.Tweet This Convenience Store Robbery Prevention Paty Pape asked tough questions about cash handling and its effect on convenience store robbery: Is there a correlation between cash handling and convenience store robbery? What are some examples of how bad cash handling contributes to convenience store robbery? What are some examples of best practices for cash handling procedures? How should a retailer go about training and enforcing cash handling procedures? Are there other convenience robbery prevention techniques that should be combined with good cash handling? Unsecured coin storage is bad cash handling Steps to Better Cash Handling Make a commitment to convenience store robbery prevention. Learn ways to operate with the least amount of available cash. Set high standards for accuracy and cash accountability. Hire cashiers that have necessary cash handling skills. Train cashiers to adhere to a maximum drawer-cash limit. Use a timed-access cash controller with a drop safe. Drop $20 bills immediately in the presence of the customer. Use the cash controller time-delay vend system to make the change. Drop extra cash in numbered envelopes in $20 increments. Train cashiers to record drops by number for fast accounting. Make one or more daily bank deposits to remove cash from stores. Don't get a reputation for cashing paychecks...it's too risky. Convenience Store Robbery Prevention Signage Links to Things Mentioned in this Episode C-Stores Decisions Magazine Tidel Cash Management Systems Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email   213-537-3505   Twitter

Do armed security guards require more regulation? Should there be a national standard for background checks? Is there a national clearinghouse for armed security guards? Is mental health screening necessary for armed security guards? Do armed security guards need more use-of-force training? Play CNN Hired Guns video then listen to the podcast dialog Podcast Time Stamps [00:40] - Should government create laws for armed security guards [01:25] - Armed security officers are not police officers [04:10] - Interview with investigative reporter Lisa McCormick begins [08:00] - At what level of government should regulations be enacted [12:00] - Need for a national armed security guards clearinghouse [18:15] - Armed security guards agency is easiest to regulate [21:15] - Property owners that hire armed guards are responsible [23:00] - Interview follow-up and remarks Armed Security Guards in the News Investigative reporter, Lisa McCormick from WDAF-TV in Kansas City called to get my opinion about the need for armed security guards licensing and background checks in Missouri, Kansas, and other states. Should the government require background checks and special training for armed security?Tweet This Armed Security Guards - Big Questions Should Missouri, Kansas, and other states create laws requiring background checks of armed security guards? What are the risks of not having screening and training regulations for armed security guards? Do I agree that the industry of armed security guards is a haphazard system of lax laws with minimal oversight and almost no accountability? Are more hours of scenario training required for armed security guards? Armed Security Guards - Answers are Complex The federal government should only provide a framework for private security guard screening especially the small armed segment of that industry. The federal government should assist with coordination of a national clearinghouse for background checks and ease current obstructions The state government is good at setting regulations and standards, but not for staying on top of licensing, complaints, and local enforcement. Local municipal government is best at enforcement if they consistently under-take the duty statewide and have budget assistance to do so. There needs to be a hybrid method of adopting Federal & State standards with local enforcement and oversight without being burdensome. We can do better, for example, a licensed manicurist has stricter licensing and training requirements than an armed security guard. Armed Guard Capable of Using Deadly Force More Resources on this Subject: Video source: CNN and Center for Investigative Reporting with Anderson Cooper. CNN year-long report on Armed Security Guards called Hired Guns, part-two. Related guard licensing story of a shooting death at a Florida nightclub. Armed and Dangerous - An illustrated story reads like a graphic novel. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email   213-537-3505   Twitter

ATM robbers may be waiting at your Automated Teller Machine. ATM cash withdrawal after-hours is high-risk if alone and female. Learn how ATM robbers think and view you as a potential victim. Think about times and locations where your ATM use was risky. Have a family meeting to discuss plans for late-night ATM use. Podcast Time Stamps: [1:10]  - ATM robbers want the element of surprise. [1:48]  - Some ATM locations are better for robbers. [2:40]  - My ATM is your ATM. [3:28]  - Robbers don’t like ATM machines in supermarkets. [4:10]  - Robbers prefer to confront a single ATM victim. [4:45]  - Robbers expect ATM victims to cooperate. [5:20]  - Robbers hate attentive ATM customers. [5:58]  - Robbers will use excessive force if you resist. [6:25]  - Video surveillance cameras not a big concern to ATM robbers. [7:05]  - Good lighting doesn’t matter that much to ATM robbers. 10 things Robbers don't want ATM victims to know.Tweet This ATM Robbers Don't Want You to Know 1. ATM robbers want the element of surprise ATM robbers are usually male, under 25 years old.  They look a little scruffy because they are likely intoxicated on alcohol or drugs. If you look around, the ATM robber is that suspicious-looking guy within 25 yards standing in the shadows or sitting in a car. ATM robbers usually work alone, but sometimes use a partner for a lookout or getaway driver. 2.  Some ATM locations are better for robbers ATM robbers prefer isolated machines with poor line-of-sight from the street or parking lot. They like to hide nearby behind some obstruction until the right moment. Robbers also like the bank drive-thru-lane machine because they can sneak up on your open car window while you focus on punching in your ATM code number. They know you can't run while buckled into your car seat. ATM robbers have the advantage because they pick the best time, the location with the best hiding places and escape routes. 3. My ATM is your ATM Once robbers stake out your machine, they don’t have to do anything, but hang around nearby, watch, and wait. ATM robbers strike between 8:00 pm – 4:00 am when ATM traffic is slowest. Robbers don’t have a bank account or a bank ATM card, so when they need quick cash they’ll use yours. They hope you withdraw $300 but will settle for less. They may also demand your phone, wallet, purse, watch, or jewelry. Occasionally, robbers will steal your car too and may take you with them to another crime scene. 4. Robbers don’t like ATM machines in supermarkets Robbers can’t see the machine from the parking lot or know when someone approaches it. There are cashiers, video surveillance, and too many witnesses. Large stores may have security watching. Robbers lose the element of surprise if they enter the store with their face covered or gun out. They don’t have a view of the parking lot from inside to know if the police are waiting outside. 5. Robbers prefer to rob a single ATM victim Robbers prefer to rob a woman that arrives alone at an ATM machine. They prefer that you don’t pay attention to your surroundings or talk on your phone at the ATM. Sometimes they pretend to use an adjacent ATM machine so you'll think they're okay. Attempting to rob two or more people increases their risk or likelihood of resistance. 6. Robbers expect ATM victims to act a certain way Robbers wait for you to approach the machine oblivious to your surroundings. They'll wait for you to focus all your attention on the ATM machine, insert your ATM card, enter your PIN code, and request cash. They will suddenly and silently appear behind you armed with a weapon just as your cash dispenses. They will threaten to hurt you if you don’t follow my commands and hand over your cash and other property without resistance. 7. ATM robbers least favorite customer ATM user that arrives by car with one or more passengers. The driver stays inside with the motor running and headlights ...

Los Angeles violent crime surged by 67% downtown for the first six months of 2015 according to the FBI Uniform Crime Reports. Is the increase in violent crime caused by gang activity? Was it caused by the jail inmate's early-release program? Is it related to the growing Skid Row Homeless Population? Did Proposition 47 felony crime reclassification cause the spike? Mayor Eric Garcetti and Chief Charlie Beck press conference Podcast Time Stamps: [00:45] - Press conference with Chief Beck and Mayor Garcetti. [01:48] - Interview with KABC talk-radio show host Peter Tilden. [02:30] - Why is Los Angeles violent crime increasing downtown. [03:55] -  Los Angeles violent crime up 67% in downtown. [04:50] - More cops not the answer to lowering crime statistics. [08:52] - My comments about the interview subject matter. [09:02] - What's causing the spike in Los Angeles violent crime. [10:50] - Three-strikes law in California. [12:35] - Perfect Crime Storm. [13:00] - Early-release of jail and prison inmates. [14:45] - Skid Row in Los Angeles. [15:20] - Proposition 47 and its contribution to the crime rate increase. [16:25] - LAPD modifies arrest and jail booking policy. [18:00] - Los Angeles Violent Crime analysis - Mystery in the numbers. [18:30] - FBI Uniform Crime Reports. [20:50] - LA Times investigated LAPD crime under-reporting. [23:15] - Predictions about crime trends in Los Angeles violent crime. What caused the rise in Los Angeles violent crime downtown? Was it caused by: A downtown gang-turf battle. A surge in drug activity. A major new entertainment or sports venue opening. Rising homelessness and violence on Skid Row. Discharge of jail inmates due to overcrowding. Proposition 47 downgrading felonies to misdemeanors. Change in offender arrest and jail booking policy. Changes in LAPD policy on crime classifications. Increased part-1 UCR crime reporting to FBI. Violent crime was under-reported in 2104. Violent crime data correction in 2015. A combination of several of these factors. California was Tough on Crime The three-strikes law in California was legislation that mandated the courts to impose harsher jail and prison sentences on habitual offenders. The sentencing threshold was having at least two-prior serious criminal convictions and has now committed a third. In California, even a misdemeanor drug crime conviction could be that third-strike triggering harsher jail or prison sentence. The idea was to be tough on crime by keeping those more likely to commit a serious crime off the streets and separate habitual-offenders from society using the baseball analogy of three-strikes and you’re out. The Three-Strikes Law was credited by many for the decade of crime rate reduction in California.Tweet This The Perfect Crime Storm However, this crime reduction benefit came at a high-price. The Los Angeles County jail quickly became overcrowded with those awaiting trial and sentencing. The inmate congestion and deplorable housing conditions in the county jail were condemned by everyone. Early Release from Jail Beginning in 2013-2014 the City and County of Los Angeles began to early-release “low-risk” jail inmates at a significant rate. Relevant to this discussion is that the largest jail complex in the United States, the Twin Towers, and Men’s Central Jail correctional facility, are located in downtown Los Angeles in the LAPD Central Division. According to a statewide audit, by June 2014 California jails were releasing 14,000 inmates per month after serving 20% or less of their sentence while also reducing the state prison population by over 25,000. With all this happening in a relatively short time span, it was no surprise to hear the rise in crime announcement by city officials. Los Angeles Skid Row Many inmates that are suddenly released don’t have any place to go.

Home Invasion robbery can strike anyone including American Idol star Scotty McCreery. There was a knock on the apartment door at 2:00 am. The door was opened and three heavily-armed robbers barged in. Robbers took wallets, phones, and electronics totaling $1,600. America’s Morning Show host Blair Garner called about the May 2014  home invasion robbery of country singer Scotty McCreery. Home Invasion Robbery Country music star Scotty McCreery won the 10th season of American Idol in 2011. At the time of this incident, McCreery was a 20-years old and a student at Raleigh's North Carolina State University. According to police, McCreery said he and his friends bought hamburgers and returned to the apartment to eat and watch the movie, Gladiator. Just as the movie was getting good there was a knock on the apartment door about 2:00 am. One of the guys who lived in the apartment figured it was just a neighbor. He looked through the peep-hole in the door. He only saw one guy standing outside the door who wasn't wearing a mask or gloves, so in his mind, he didn't look suspicious. A home robbery can strike anyone including American Idol star Scotty McCreeryTweet This Unbeknownst to them, there were three other men hiding out of view of the peep-hole. When McCreery's friend opened the door they barged in with their guns waving. The first guy in the room had an assault rifle, and he put the muzzle right against the sternum of the guy who opened the door. The home invasion robber who seemed to be in charge put a pistol to McCreery’s head and another robber pointed a pistol at another guy's head. "It definitely puts your life in perspective when you're staring down the barrel of a pistol", McCreery said. The home invasion robbers took wallets, cash, phones, and electronics totaling $1,600. The home invasion robbers made the five students lay face-down on the floor and count to 100 before getting up. Fortunately, No one was hurt. McCreery Home Invasion Follow-up Only one 19-year old home invasion robbery suspect Mikkail Jamal Shaw turned himself in and was arrested. Do you think McCreery was recognized by the robbers at the restaurant and then followed back to the apartment? Witnesses reported that the home invasion robbers ran up the stairs directly to that apartment so it seems likely that it was a targeted home invasion robbery. Sometimes home invasion robbers select the victim for who they are, what they're wearing, or what car they're driving rather than the location where they live. Lessons about Home Invasion Robbery A group of young male students can feel invincible and not worry about home security A young celebrity, like McCreery, must be concerned about being recognized McCreery must know who is on the other side of a locked door before opening it It’s 2:00 am. You must consider the time of day as a safety factor With guns are pointed at your head it's not the time to be heroic, but keep thinking about options for defense I think colleges should provide personal security awareness orientation for all new students I think colleges should offer basic self-defense classes on the curriculum Things mentioned in this episode America's Morning Show with Blair Garner Home Invasion article by Chris McGoey Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris McGoey Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Litigation Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Article Index Crime School Podcast Index Connect with Chris McGoey Email   213-537-3505   Twitter

Employee theft is the silent profit killer that plays a major role in the financial life or death of your restaurant, cafe, hotel, or bar. How can I learn the causes and cures of employee theft and prevent loss in my business? How do I prevent employee theft in my restaurant, hotel, or bar? What loss prevention strategy, when implemented, will keep my employees honest? Employee Theft is the Silent Profit Killer I answer questions of my co-host, Ken Burgin, from the Profitable Hospitality podcast located down-under in Sydney, Australia. Employee Theft Employee Theft from a restaurant, hotel, or bar is a term that is used when an employee steals cash, food, ingredients, or supplies while working on the job. In the eyes of the law, employee theft is just theft…the elements of the crime are identical. To commit theft, the employee must intend to permanently deprive their employer of the value of the item stolen. Employee theft is an insidious crime because the employer is paying a wage and benefits to the thief on top of paying for the cost of their dishonesty. Studies have shown that dishonest employees do a lot of damage because they were trusted, had daily access, and had an insider’s know-how to circumvent the accountability systems. This breach of trust makes employee theft more like the crime of embezzlement than shoplifting. Employee Theft Profile There is no real physical profile for a dishonest employee. Dishonest employees come in all shapes, sizes, ages, sexes, ethnic backgrounds, religions, levels of education, and economic status. You cannot determine who is likely to steal based on their demographic status alone. However, an employer can make reasonable assessments based on their past and present conduct, integrity, and judgment. Some restaurant and bar employees have stolen from every prior employer and will certainly steal from you if hired. It’s a risk-reward decision for them. The reward is the amount they can steal without getting caught. Most employee theft suspects I’ve encountered never thought they would be never be caught. They thought they were too smart for the boss because they got away with it for months or years. This was the reason most often given, and why they felt the risk was worth the reward. I've found that employers with high-theft losses were not sending a clear message that accountability systems were in place to detect employee theft. The deterrence for borderline-dishonest employees includes getting caught, fired, arrested, convicted, jailed, probation, and paying restitution. Help them to realize that a criminal record and bad job reference will have a compounding effect that will follow them for years. But because of the nature of a cash business, borderline honest employees have to resist ever-present opportunities to steal cash, product, or merchandise…all that some need is a nudge from a supervisor to elevate their desire and motivation to steal from you. Some employees would never steal from you under any circumstances. What keeps these employees honest is their moral character, loyalty, respect for the law and their employer, and the desire to be viewed as trustworthy. You have little control over these positive attributes other than recognizing it in the people and hiring more like them. Accountability is Key to Prevent Employee theft You are the architect of your employee theft loss prevention plan. You need a clearly defined accountability structure for employees and managers on every shift. Your best employees and managers will like the structure and tangible goals to achieve. Maintaining high-standards allows good employees to excel and be recognized for their accomplishments Studies support this by proving that employee theft losses are significantly less in business with high-accountability, high employee satisfaction, and reduced employee turnover.

Bar bouncers are caught on video acting like thugs and brawlers intentionally punching, kicking, using knee strikes, and stomping on patrons just like in the movie Road House. A reporter from the St. Augustine Record newspaper in Florida asked me to view video footage posted on YouTube and comment on the behavior of several Conch House Marina bar bouncers. You be the judge about how the bar bouncers handled the melee when you view this video for yourself. The bar bouncers are the big guys dressed in orange t-shirts. Link to Conch House Brawl Video My video observations Conch House Marina dock was critically over-crowed. Bouncers were acting like thugs rather than protective security. Bouncers yelling "chill out" is not effective in crowd control. I counted six people down with injuries or unconscious. I saw bouncers throwing sucker-punches. I saw a bouncer using a choke-hold on a patron. I saw a bouncer kicking, kneeing, and stomping on a patron. I saw blatant excessive force by multiple bouncers. I saw bar bystanders get knocked over like bowling pins. I saw a general lack of a bar security plan and training. Your list may be much longer than my quick outline. The punching, kicking, knee strikes, stomping, and choking that I witnessed on this video was offensive rather than defensive force, and was not reasonable, under these circumstances. There’s a lesson here about bar bouncers It’s not always wise to hire bar bouncers whose main attribute is his large-size if the job description requires someone to have a calm professional demeanor and adequate training to manage a large crowd and drunk and disorderly customers. From watching the video, I suspect that many of the Conch House bar bouncers: They had little or no security experience. They received little or no training in crowd control. They were not taught about the lawful limitations of using excessive force on customers. In a crisis, like this one, inexperienced and untrained bouncers will fall-back on their physically aggressive instincts to solve what should have been a crowd management problem addressed in the planning stage. That's why these things can happen. Duty of bar bouncers A bar bouncer is supposed to monitor the crowd so everyone has a good time but within reasonable limits. Watch that everyone behaves according to rules of conduct. Patrons don't become overly intoxicated. Or become bothersome to others. The best bouncers are personable, friendly and can talk to intoxicated patrons without appearing threatening or intimidating. After all, these customers are the same welcomed guests that you admitted at the door, charged an entry fee, served your food, and your intoxicating alcoholic beverages. Bar management has a responsibility to protect them in the same manner as any other guest. The best bouncers know that their job is not to bounce anyone…but rather talk to people. The mere presence of a well-trained bouncer will remind the patron that their conduct is being scrutinized and that their patronage can be revoked. Conch House Reggae Sunday Party Conch House formula for premises liability The owner of Conch House was the architect of the nature of this facility and what it became on this day. I’ve been told that it's family-owned and for many years it was a nice place to visit, have lunch or dinner, and relax over-looking the marina. I don't know why or when the nature of this family restaurant and bar changed to a wild entertainment facility, but on this day at least the party was executed poorly. The Reggae Sunday party promotion on this Memorial Weekend 2015 may come back to haunt the owners and managers when the lawsuits, that are sure to come, are served. More than likely, the lawsuits will allege failure to provide adequate security; and failure to properly hire, train, and supervise bouncers before turning them loose on the guests.

Questions about the apartment security gang takeover of my building? My rental property was taken over by Los Angeles gang members. How can I get them out and make my building safe? I called the police and was told they can't remove them, is that true? A Crime School listener named Victor contacted me asking for advice about apartment security and gang takeover of his building. I spoke to him on the phone to gather more details. High-crime four-plex apartment building Here is a summary of what Victor said: His elderly mother owns a two-story four-plex apartment building in a high-crime neighborhood of Los Angeles His mother is physically unable to manage the property any longer He lives eighty-miles away with his own career and family. He is trying to help out his mother part-time on weekends The building is taken over by gangsters who he believes forced entry and is living in the second-floor units He can't find leases or paperwork on any of the tenants so he doesn’t know for certain who is authorized to live there He used to get HAP payments from one section-8 tenant, but no one is paying rent now He has called the police. They say it’s a civil matter and cannot remove the occupants since they say they're tenants He has parked across the street during the day and night and observed a lot of gangster foot-traffic in and out of the units He suspects drug activity and prostitution is going on based on his observations of foot traffic There are a fence and gate around the property, but someone disabled the locks He wants to clean out the whole building and start over but doesn’t know where to begin and he is afraid There are two abandoned cars, probably stolen, parked in his lot He wants to know if he should buy video cameras or hire a security guard patrol to get proof of the crime Aerial view of the high-density high-crime neighborhood Your Response to Apartment Security Gang Takeover Your first priority is the safety of any tenants, unit occupants, and even trespassers. Next, you need to make an assessment of who is living there and the condition of every unit. Search for paperwork, leases, rent checks, receipts, deposit accounts, HUD correspondence, etc. You need to address this problem quickly, but in an organized manner with a plan. Until you get some training, hire a property management consultant that specializes in distressed rental housing to assist with: lawful evictions. emergency board-up. a building rehabilitation strategy. new lease documentation. Develop an action plan and detailed to-do list with a distressed property consultant. Consider taking time off work, if possible, to address the major issues all at once. Determine if it’s in your family’s best interest to sell the building or heavily reinvest in it. Plan of Action Timeline Partner with the Angeles Police Department immediately about criminal activity LAPD 77th Street Community Station is a half-mile away. Introduce yourself to the police station Captain and solicit support. Meet your police beat-officers and patrol Sergeant (i.e. beats are now called cars). Ask for a free property CPTED security survey by the crime prevention unit. Follow the LAPD advice about posting no loitering and trespass signs. Partner with the local apartment association Contact and join your local apartment owners association. Get a crash course in property management and tenancy rules for gang takeover. Learn about more in-depth educational opportunities for new property managers. Obtain proper lease documentation and seek training to comply with California landlord/tenant regulations. Seek referrals to qualified property management consultants. Once supported by law enforcement and guided by a property consultant Begin to take back control of your property.

A disorderly house in California is a liquor licensed premises that disturb the neighborhood or is maintained for purposes that are injurious to the public morals, health, convenience or safety. A liquor license outlet that: (a) disturbs the neighborhood with noise, loud music, loitering, littering, vandalism, urination or defecation by patrons, graffiti, etc.; or (b) has many crimes ongoing inside, such as drunks, fights, assaults, prostitution, narcotics, etc. The liquor license premises include the parking lot (and 20 feet of sidewalk in some cases). (Calif B&P Code 25601 and 24200). Our guest is a former California Alcoholic Beverage Control executive Lauren Tyson. Disorderly House shut down by the State Liquor License Regulations What kind of liquor license establishments can be considered a disorderly house in California? How does a business operating as a disorderly house affect the neighborhood and local law enforcement? Is a liquor license owner in California responsible for patron conduct in the parking lot and front sidewalk? How does the State Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control learn about crime and nuisance complaints? How are liquor license owners notified about disciplinary actions against their licenses? Does a disorderly house accusation affect future liquor license suspension or revocation actions? What is the most common cause of a disorderly house accusation? What does California law say with regard to selling alcoholic beverages an intoxicated customer in a licensed establishment? What are some of the physical signs a person shows when they are intoxicated? What is the difference between obvious intoxication and legal intoxication? What does BAC mean?  (e.g. Blood Alcohol Content) What methods are there to count drinks served? Should a bar use a BAC chart for training on how to estimate intoxication? Should a bar or nightclub allow patrons to reach .08 BAC? What if bar patron isn’t driving, can they drink past .08 BAC? How can a bar prevent a patron from reaching .08 BAC? Can an alcoholic beverage server sell to an obviously intoxicated person if on foot? May an intoxicated patron be permitted to enter or remain in a licensed establishment? Is a server responsible for knowing a patron’s BAC level? Use the CARE system for not over-serving bar patrons C = Counting number of standard-size drinks A = Be attentive to patron consumption, mood, changes in behavior R = Rating your guest sobriety level (green, yellow, red) E = Executing your duty to serve alcoholic beverages responsibly BAC chart (e.g. 160 lb. man takes 3 standard drinks to hit .07 BAC) What is considered to be a standard drink in California? Are alcohol beverage servers required to know how many standard drinks are in each drink they serve? Do large drinks and multi-liquor drinks increase BAC at a faster rate? What factors affect levels of intoxication? Should liquor license owners be required to act as “My Brother’s Keeper”? Why is having an adequate number of trained staff important? Does the server's job include taking care of the obviously intoxicated patron? Do other states have the same or similar liquor license laws? How do liquor control agents or local law enforcement officers investigate and enforce liquor law violations? What drives ABC investigations, undercover, and task force work? Did you use of undercover investigators to prove actual notice of a violation to bar staff? Recommends having a security plan ready to defend a disorderly house accusation at the hearing. About our Guest Lauren C. Tyson Lauren C. Tyson Lauren Tyson is the CEO and founder of Liquor Licensee Advisor located in Riverside, California. She consults with licensed establishments on how to prevent and manage alcohol-related risk, either before or after an incident.

Shoplifters, like all thieves, don't want to get caught. Shoplifters don't want you to know why your store is desirable. Shoplifters perception influences how often they visit your store. Learn how to make your store appear less inviting to shoplifters. We hope this motivates you to look at your own retail operation. Podcast Time Stamps: [2:50] - I don’t like being greeted when I enter your store. [3:18] - I don’t like excessive customer service. [3:42] - I don’t like neatly organized aisles and displays. [4:15] - I don’t like undercover loss prevention agents. [4:52] - I don’t like video surveillance cameras. [5:25] - I don’t like stores that prosecute shoplifters. [6:01] - I don’t like locked or monitored fitting-rooms. [6:28] - I don’t like locked or monitored restrooms. [7:04] - I don’t like security-cables or electronic sensor tags. [7:34] - I don’t like exit bag-checks or door security guards. 10 Things a Shoplifter Doesn’t Want You to KnowTweet This Shoplifters account for billions in retail store losses every year 1. I don’t like being greeted when I enter your store Shoplifters want to feel anonymous. I don’t want your store employees to notice me, to make eye contact, or even speak to me. I’m already nervous. I ready don't like it when you post a large male door-greeter that might detain me on the way out of your store. 2. I don’t like excessive customer service Shoplifters need opportunity and privacy to steal your stuff. I’m not buying anything, so leave me alone to browse your store. The more times I refuse an offer for assistance the worse it is for my comfort level. 3. I don’t like neatly organized aisles and displays Shoplifters like to see cluttered aisles, disorganized shelves, damaged packaging, empty hangers, and crowded, over-stocked conditions. It gives me more cover to steal things and hides the fact that something is missing. It also tells me that the store manager and employees don't really care about shoplifters. I like that. 4. I don’t like undercover loss prevention agents Shoplifters call them Narcs. I’m on the lookout for anyone who might be an undercover store detective. I look for people focused on watching me instead of their work. I avoid stores and national chains that actively use plain-clothes LP Agents because their job is to arrest me. Once an LP agent spots me, follows me, or speaks to me, that store is dead to me. 5. I don’t like video surveillance cameras Shoplifters don’t like seeing themselves displayed on a large video monitor when I enter your store. This proves that your camera system works and you have now captured my image. Those video camera domes in the ceiling bother me. I can’t tell if they’re real or fake or if my actions are being recorded. I don’t like those two-way security mirrors mounted on the ceiling either. 6. I don’t like stores that prosecute shoplifters Shoplifters greatest fear is to get arrested. I search the Internet to find out which store chains apprehend and prosecute shoplifters. I prefer passive stores with a policy against detaining or prosecuting shoplifters. Although I’m too careful to ever get caught, I don’t like taking an unnecessary risk of being arrested by aggressive store security. 7. I don’t like locked or monitored fitting-rooms Shoplifters need privacy to steal your stuff. I know fitting-rooms won’t have surveillance cameras. I like my fitting-rooms unlocked with no attendant to count my items in and out. It’s a bonus for me if there are items I like abandoned in the fitting-room for me to steal. 8. I don’t like locked or monitored restrooms Shoplifters want to take merchandise inside without being observed, I’m guaranteed privacy in the restroom stall. I don't like asking for a restroom key. When I exit, I’ll watch for anyone coming in after me to look for discarded items. Even if spotted, the store staff won’t approach me until after I exit the store.

Crime Free Multi-Housing Program, part-two. In this episode, we continue the discussion about apartment security and this highly-effective crime prevention partnership. The goal of the Crime Free Multi-housing Program is to keep illegal activity off rental housing property. The Crime Free Multi-housing Program was developed in 1992 at Mesa Police Department by today's guest Tim Zehring. There is no one better to tell you about the benefits of the Crime Free Programs and the International Crime Free Association. Crime Free Multi-Housing If you own one or more multi-family apartment properties or you’re in the business of residential rental property management then this program is for you. Property Owner or Manager Ask yourself these questions: Do you want help to prevent criminal incidents from occurring on your property like open and active drug activity, gang activity, loitering, trespassing, graffiti, vandalism, property damage, burglary to rental units and vehicles, stolen cars, and physical assaults of residents... Do you want your apartment property to enjoy a good reputation in the community for being known as a reasonably safe to live… Do you want your residents and staff to feel safe while living or working on your property and not suddenly quit work or terminate their lease out of fear of crime… Do you want more referrals from your best tenants to their friends that want to live in a community that actively practices crime prevention… Do you want to learn how to make the criminal element feel uncomfortable living or hanging out on your property and find another location… Do you want reduced unit make-ready expenses and advertising costs caused by sudden vacancies following a criminal incident… Do you want a higher occupancy rate, be able to charge a premium rent, and even have a waiting list of qualified applicants who want to live a crime-free lifestyle…. Do you want to reduce your exposure to premises liability lawsuits and negligence claims because someone was injured on your property during a criminal assault… If the answers so far are yes…then you need the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program to support you Law Enforcement Agency If you’re a law enforcement agency and you want to reduce the number of calls-for-service to multi-family rental housing properties in your jurisdiction, then this program is for you. Ask yourself these questions: Do you want to reduce repeated calls for service to high-crime multi-family housing properties by an average of 70% and redirect those resources to other crime priorities in your city… Do you want to learn how to gain trust and cooperation with apartment landlords and managers and work together to solve criminal activity on multi-family rental housing properties… Do want easier access to 1/3 of the population that resides on private property in rental housing… Do you want to become part of an international law enforcement organization that offers a tested model crime prevention program, training of your officers provides support, and continuing education about reducing crime on rental housing properties… Do you want your agency to enjoy the public relations benefit for starting a proactive community-based crime prevention initiative… If the answers so far are yes…then you need the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program as a road-map to guide you toward your crime reduction goals. In part two of this episode you learned about: Phase 2 of the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program Focus on the physical security of the rental units and common area Fortifying the apartment doors and windows Common area security Lighting, landscaping, and access control Phase 3 safety social for residents Building a sense of community Stranger-hoods in rental housing Law enforcement train-the-trainer program Building a network of Crime Free Coordinators Crime Free Lease Addendum

Crime Free Multi-Housing Program goal is to keep illegal activity off rental apartment property. We discuss the core components of the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program in part-one of this episode, and how it developed into the dynamic law enforcement-based program that it is today. Today’s special guest is Tim Zehring. He created the Crime Free Multi-housing Program in 1992. There is no one better to tell you about all the benefits of the comprehensive crime prevention program. Crime Free Multi-housing If you own one or more multi-family apartment properties or you’re in the business of residential rental property management then this program is for you. Apartment Owner or Manager Ask yourself these questions: Do you want help to prevent criminal incidents from occurring on your property like open and active drug activity, gang activity, loitering, trespassing, graffiti, vandalism, property damage, burglary to rental units and vehicles, stolen cars, and physical assaults of residents... Do you want your apartment property to enjoy a good reputation in the community for being known as a reasonably safe to live… Do you want your residents and staff to feel safe while living or working on your property and not suddenly quit work or terminate their lease out of fear of crime… Do you want more referrals from your best tenants to their friends that want to live in a community that actively practices crime prevention… Do you want to learn how to make the criminal element feel uncomfortable living or hanging out on your property and find another location… Do you want reduced unit make-ready expenses and advertising costs caused by sudden vacancies following a criminal incident… Do you want a higher occupancy rate, be able to charge a premium rent, and even have a waiting list of qualified applicants who want to live a crime-free lifestyle…. Do you want to reduce your exposure to premises liability lawsuits and negligence claims because someone was injured on your property during a criminal assault… If the answers so far are yes…then you need the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program to support you. If you’re a law enforcement agency and you want to reduce the number of calls-for-service to multi-family rental housing properties in your jurisdiction, then this program is for you. Law Enforcement Agency Ask yourself these questions: Do you want to reduce repeated calls for service to high-crime multi-family housing properties by an average of 70% and redirect those resources to other crime priorities in your city… Do you want to learn how to gain trust and cooperation with apartment landlords and managers and work together to solve criminal activity on multi-family rental housing properties… Do want easier access to 1/3 of the population that resides on private property in rental housing… Do you want to become part of an international law enforcement organization that offers a tested model crime prevention program, training of your officers provides support, and continuing education about reducing crime on rental housing properties… Do you want your agency to enjoy the public relations benefit for starting a proactive community-based crime prevention initiative… If the answers so far are yes…then you need the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program as a road-map to guide you toward your crime reduction goals. My Endorsement of the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program I’ve been involved in apartment rental housing and property management for almost five-decades…almost as long as my involvement in crime prevention and security management. I know first-hand the landlord-tenant arguments and operational pain-points on both sides of this equation I’ve also been closely involved with the Crime Free Multi-housing program for twenty-five years as a Charter Member and watched it develop and mature into the organized model program that it is today.

Home Security - Make a Family Security Plan to be Safe. In this episode, learn about home security and how to make any home, condo, or apartment your castle and protect all those who live in it. Home Security Starts at the Street Interview with Dunagun Kaiser about Home Security and Safety Reluctant Preppers YouTube Show Dunagun Kaiser I gave my thoughts about home security and preventing crimes like a home burglary, home invasion robbery, and my personal strategy for creating and using a safe room. Unlike some of my guests here at Crime School, I had no idea what questions would be asked or where the interview might go. Home Security Points of Discussion How a burglar looks at your home and selects a target. Burglar's view from the street. Don't want your house to be an easy target. Home, apartment, or condo is a box with door and window openings. Fortify these openings as necessary for the risk level. Heavy-duty deadbolts, strike plates, door viewport. Window and glass door strategies. Home invasion robbery scenario. Why a robber wants you to be at home. Why a burglar wants an unoccupied home. Start with a family home security plan. Have designated escape plans. Add layers of security as necessary for risk. Extend protective image out toward the street. Plan not to be a victim. Establish a routine to prevent home burglary or robbery. Planning to escape from a home invasion. Saferoom preparation with intention. Communication strategies ready for a crisis. Rural or remote robbery scenarios. Taking action now to improve home security. Home Security Resources Mentioned Home Burglar Alarm System Options Reluctant Preppers. Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation Download the book written by Crime School host Chris McGoey. Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation. Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases. Biography of Chris E. McGoey Client Testimonials from a few clients Speaking Engagements Media Interviews Premises Liability Book Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness Hire Chris as a Security Consultant Chris McGoey Blog Index About Crime School Podcast Connect with Chris McGoey Email  213-537-3505   Twitter

Making Places Safe Crime needs a place to happen. Making Places Safe from crime puts focus on the where question. It is far easier to develop a security plan for a single place than to figure out answers to innumerable questions about who, what, when, how, and why crime might occur. A rising trend in criminal activity may require some level of intention and action to address the contributing risk factors. Making Places Safe Some places are inherently safe. Without any thought, action, or intention required to make them that way. This does not mean that these places are 100% guaranteed safe. Yet, most would agree that it's reasonably safe. These fortunate places usually have several things in common: Historically safe geographic area & neighborhood. The nature of the premises is low-risk (e.g. single-family home versus 24-hour store). Daily activity & visitor traffic is low-risk. The occupants or users of the place keep it reasonably safe. Some places can be made reasonably safe by using basic security methods or compliance with regulations: For example, minimum standards set forth by building codes, city planning, or business license. Private places can limit or restrict access, enforce rules, and use counter-measures like video surveillance, alarm systems, and warning signs. Shopping center common area lighting and landscaping can meet minimum city planning CPTED standards. Residential structures can meet minimum building code standards with adequate door and window security features & fire safety devices. Nightclubs can meet minimum standards by complying with fire marshal building capacity, permitted use regulations, licensing & permits, alcohol service training. What happens if circumstances change and compliance with minimum standards no longer provide adequate security? A good place to start is to make a new crime risk assessment as a basis for modifying the original security plan. A reasonable security plan addresses the specific circumstances of the property necessary for reducing the crime risk. No security plan is perfect, but a clearly defined plan shows a positive response to making places safe. The security plan must be property-based. Every place is different when you consider location, design, size, layout, intended use, traffic, demographics, and activity. A corporate-wide security plan may not be adequate to address the factors identified in the local crime risk assessment. A security plan must be clearly defined and articulated for making places safe. It should leverage facility design, and use of hardware, equipment, personnel, and procedures to the extent necessary to make the property reasonably safe. A security plan does not have to address a temporary activity center that elevates the crime risk if it can be eliminated as a component of the property. A security plan should be dynamic enough to assign different levels of priority for the protection of people or property by variables in day-of-week and time-of-day. How to make places safe for people and property are core objectives at Crime SchoolTweet This Who is responsible for making places safe? It's a question of who has the duty, control, authority, or undertakes by agreement. The duty for making places safe can be a complex legal question especially when disputed. In future episodes, we will interview attorneys and property management experts about the legal concepts of duty, negligence, liability, and the sometimes cooperative responsibility for making places safe. Here is a list of who typically has responsibility for making places safe (in order of precedence): A property owner (e.g. private or public entity). Property manager. Tenant. Lessee. Contractor. Property user. Some combination of the above. A security plan is a blueprint for making places safe

Crime Prevention Works When There is a Security Plan. "If we can get people to make that commitment, to prevent crime, we can give them the tools they need to do it. Ideally, we should all be working together in partnership with that same goal." Our guest, internationally known crime prevention expert Tim Zehring knows that crime prevention works best with a plan. If you're interested in the field of crime prevention you simply must listen to this episode. Crime Prevention Works Crime prevention is similar to fire science Elements necessary to commit a crime Bad Seed Theory Motivation versus consequences It's everyone's job to prevent crime Business crime prevention Criminal deterrence Why criminals are like big heavy rocks and some are like weeds Proactive versus reactive law enforcement Why property owners have more power than the police Why a public-private partnership works best Misconceptions about the job of law enforcement Crime prevention works Crime Free programs People feel that that the government should be responsible for our crime problems…but "we are the government, we are the people…the police are the public and the public are the police. The police are only members of the public that are paid to give full-time attention to duties that are incumbent on every citizen in the interest of community welfare and existence” – Sir Robert Peel -- 1829 Crime is Frustrating Crime victims are often frustrated because they believe that as taxpayers the laws of society, the police, or property managers should protect them from criminal acts of others. The police are frustrated because after they arrest the perpetrators, witnesses won’t always testify; the courts won’t always prosecute criminals to the fullest extent of the law, or convicted felons are released early from incarceration. The courts and prosecutors are frustrated when the law favors the rights of criminals over victims; the police don’t provide the proper evidence necessary for conviction; witnesses become uncooperative and unwilling to testify. Property owners and business operators are frustrated because they believe individuals don’t do enough to protect themselves from harmful situations; some victims fail to control their risky behavior while using their property and then decide to sue when injured. Clearly, every person and every relevant public agency has a role to play. Crime prevention works. Ideally, we should be working together in partnership with the same goal. From all perspectives, there is a need for consistent information exchange to improve understanding of this public and private partnership. It this way we can improve and promote the shared responsibility for a unified crime prevention effort. Crime Prevention Defined Most criminologists generally define crime prevention as the anticipation, recognition, and assessment of crime risk, and the development of a plan to reduce or eliminate those risks. This axiom is well-known to crime prevention professionals but is easier to say than it is to accomplish if working without a well-articulated and defined plan. Crime prevention is only a well-intended theory until an assessment is made and the security plan of action is implemented. Arrest & Incarceration Model The arrest and incarceration model of crime prevention will temporarily prevent crime by separating perpetrators from society. The crime rate just transfers to our jails and prisons where many will refine their methods of operation. Ask any professional crime analyst...how is arresting and incarcerating criminals working for us as a national crime prevention strategy? Public-Private Partnership There needs to be a better relationship and understanding between the duties and responsibilities of the public law enforcement agency and the private property owner and manager when forming a partnership to prevent crime.

Why might burglars choose your home before others? Look at your home and habits from the perspective of burglars. Discover what you should do before burglars come calling. Evaluate your own home like a burglar and take action. Involve the family and develop your own security plan. Set a date for the annual review and update the commitment. Podcast Time Stamps: [0:50] - I know your neighborhood [1:15] - Your home is familiar to me [1:50] - Your home is poorly secured [2:15] - Your home is dark at night [2:37] - I know things about your lifestyle [3:12] - Your front door is hidden from view [3:55] - There are no alarm warning signs [4:23] - There's no dog protecting your home [4:42] - Your neighbors are not alert for burglars [5:04] - I know you’re on vacation Burglars Ignore a Protected Home 10 Reasons Why a Burglar will Choose Your Home.Tweet This I know your neighborhood Burglars know the streets and getaway routes because they live, work, or attend school nearby and routinely drive down your street and pass by your home. Burglars can select any home to burglarize, but I like yours best. Your home is familiar to me I've been in your home before as a service worker, repairman, painter, or have made a delivery. Burglars might be a dishonest acquaintance of one of your kids. I've already checked out the security of your home for future reference. If given access, I may unlatch a window or copy a key to make my return a little bit easier. Your home is poorly secured From the street, home burglars can spot your bad habit of leaving doors and windows open during the day. I burglarize homes during the day. I may park down the street to pick-up on your daily departure routine. To make sure, I always knock first and then look in through uncovered windows for any occupants. Your home is dark at night Home burglars like to prowl outside your home in the dark and peek in your windows. I know you don’t have outdoor security lights. I hate motion sensor lights that suddenly snap on. It scares me and draws attention to my presence. I know things about your lifestyle Home burglars may select your home because of you...and the fact that you drive an expensive car, wear nice clothes, and jewelry. I think you’ll have valuable things inside for me. I've looked through your trash and found evidence of a new laptop computer, and drug prescriptions. I know you live alone, leave early, and return home late. Your front door is hidden from view My approach to your front door is blocked by overgrown foliage so neighbors won't see me. I won’t appear suspicious to neighbors because I carry a clipboard and wear a bogus uniform. I have a cover story in case someone confronts me. I search for a hidden key first, then attack the weak door and window hardware that won’t require much force or create much noise to open. There are no alarm warning signs I’m afraid of home alarm systems. Burglars won’t risk breaking-in if they see multiple alarm company signs. I know most home alarms are probably not set, but I won’t risk getting caught unless I can see through the window that the green-light on the alarm keypad is telling me that it’s disarmed. There's no dog protecting your home Dogs are a problem for me. Burglars especially don't like large noisy dogs that will attract attention or bite me. I believe the warning sign on the fence that says, “Beware of Dog.” Just to be sure, I’ll knock on the door first and listen for a dog to appear. Your neighbors are not alert for burglars In your neighborhood, I feel invisible. No one pays attention to me. I'll always avoid confrontation. If I attract the attention of a nosy neighbor I’ll move-on especially if they stare at me or ask what I’m doing. I know you’re on vacation Home burglars see newspapers and mail piled up; door-knob flyers not removed; virgin snow in the driveway or walkw...

About the Crime School Podcast My idea for a Crime School Podcast came in response to several decades of speaking to business owners, and crime victims about how to reduce their risk of physical harm and/or property loss caused by criminal activity. Security expert Chris E. McGoey is the host of Crime School. He facilitates talk-show discussions with industry experts, crime victims, and product manufacturers about the methods, tactics, and tools being used to prevent crime. Chris E McGoey Crime victims learned the hard way that the laws of society, the police, and private security didn't protect them from crime. Becoming a crime victim reminded them that personal safety and preventing property loss at home, at a place of business or when out in public is primarily their responsibility until help arrives. Most crime victims admit that they didn't think much about crime prevention or make plans to prevent specific types of crime, but would now like to learn more about it if the training was accessible and affordable. Let’s not kid ourselves, career criminals have their own crime school and learn their trade in the street, in prison, and online. Unfortunately, their methods of operation adapt faster than law enforcement and private security and their tactics are constantly evolving with new technology." I’m a practicing security consultant and licensed private investigator. I've been studying crime and loss prevention and security management for over 50 years. I’m still learning new things. I see new variations in old criminal methods of operation all the time, especially with the new technology that criminals often use to their advantage. Discussions about Crime School will provide the education and training you need to make better-informed decisions about making places safe for people and property whether you and your family are at home, at your place of business, or out in public. About Crime School Curriculum Crime and loss prevention subject matter: Discussion about breaking crime news and ongoing investigations. Preventing specific crimes against persons & property. Retail loss prevention – robbery, burglary, shoplifting, employee theft. Crime risk assessment & security planning. Home invasion and burglary prevention (homes, apartments & condos). Nightclub & bar security. Convenience store and gas station security. Fast-food and restaurant security. Shopping center security. School & campus security. Hotel & motel security. Travel security. Preventing workplace violence. Personal safety when out in public. Internet crime, fraud & scams. Self-defense & use of force including weapons. Law enforcement and private security training. Probable cause to detain, arrest, false arrest. Liability for our action or inaction. Review of products, hardware, and equipment. Who Should Participate Any concerned citizen who wants to learn how to be safe. Students that are interested in crime prevention careers. Law enforcement professionals. Corporate security management. Security consultants & investigators. Loss prevention professionals. Security guards and proprietary security officers. Risk managers & Insurance underwriters. Commercial property owners & managers. Business owners & operators. Attorneys interested premises liability & negligence claims. Equipment suppliers and service contractors. Podcast Talk Show Format Crime School uses a talk-show format to interview crime victims and industry experts, criminologists, investigators, business operators, and crime prevention specialists that have been successful in solving specific crime problems in various settings. We interview security and personal safety product manufacturers to learn about the latest in hardware, equipment, and technology that can be used as tools to fight crime.