The Wild West of Private Security Guards episode artwork

EPISODE · Apr 3, 2024 · 16 MIN

The Wild West of Private Security Guards

from City Cast Philly · host City Cast

A disclaimer: this episode contains descriptions of violence and mentions sexual assault. In gas stations, bars and shops in the city, it’s not uncommon to see private security guards, some openly carrying large firearms. But a recent investigation by The Philadelphia Inquirer found that Pennsylvania has some of the most archaic laws in the country governing the private security industry. Guards may receive little training or oversight, leading to injuries, lawsuits, and even deaths. Executive producer Laura Benshoff speaks with Samantha Melamed, investigative reporter with the Inquirer, about this wild west scenario and what needs to change to make the public—and guards—safer. Read Samantha’s full story here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices.

A disclaimer: this episode contains descriptions of violence and mentions sexual assault. In gas stations, bars and shops in the city, it’s not uncommon to see private security guards, some openly carrying large firearms. But a recent investigation by The Philadelphia Inquirer found that Pennsylvania has some of the most archaic laws in the country governing the private security industry. Guards may receive little training or oversight, leading to injuries, lawsuits, and even deaths. Executive producer Laura Benshoff speaks with Samantha Melamed, investigative reporter with the Inquirer, about this wild west scenario and what needs to change to make the public—and guards—safer. Read Samantha’s full story here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices.

NOW PLAYING

The Wild West of Private Security Guards

0:00 16:43

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of City Cast Philly?

This episode is 16 minutes long.

When was this City Cast Philly episode published?

This episode was published on April 3, 2024.

What is this episode about?

A disclaimer: this episode contains descriptions of violence and mentions sexual assault. In gas stations, bars and shops in the city, it’s not uncommon to see private security guards, some openly carrying large firearms. But a recent investigation...

Can I download this City Cast Philly episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!