imported post
cali90027 wrote:
Yes I do, and that is true. I was actually waiting for someone to post that side of the argument. However, BID Patrol, which is part of Andrews International "patrols" the public streets of Hollywood while openly carrying loaded weapons. They are not guarding a specific private property, but driving on public streets and walking on public sidewalks actively engaging and detaining individuals in public space—not private. The also leave the boulevard and go into the neighborhoods adjacent to where the businesses are which should not be allowed at all. BID Patrol are not sworn peace officers either, and have no police powers beyond what the average citizen has. I was even told by LAPD to ignore BID officers because of my repeated run-ins with Andrews International while "shooting" (photography) in the streets. That they have no authority to engage me or detain me for taking pictures in public, which does lead to confrontations at times. Yes, they can approach me and try to engage me in a consensual conversation but I don't have to listen to a thing they say or stay to listen to them. I can leave whenever I want. One LAPD officer actually referred to all of them as Paul Barts.
the only possible explanation of that is if the city contracts them to assist peace officers by taking care of the meanialthings cops deal with. As the law state in california any private person(not citizen)*can detain or arrest. *you need not be an american citizen to affect a private persons arrest.
You are very correct about consentual encounters. The same applies to police officers talking to you. unless they detain you, you're free to move about as you please.
The reason they carry loaded is one you have already stated. They wear the uniform, and are seen as an authoritative figure; which in turn, makes them a target. Since they
are not sworn police officers, and are often used by people to project their insecurities/fear/hatred of police officers without the repercussions of doing it to an actual peace officer. Soa punk gang banger(or anyone really)can murder/assault them and not get as harsh as a punnishment but still look cool to his buddies for "killin' a po-lice"
C.P.C. 187: MURDER: 15-LIFE OR DEATH
C.P.C. 190(c): MURDER OF A PEACE OFFICER: 25-LIFE OR DEATH
i may be off slightly on my penal codes. im going off of memory here.