Vagrant loitering, on its face, may seem like a harmless crime. Unfortunately, however, it can have a significant negative impact on commercial properties- especially shopping and retail centers. The presence of vagrants and other loiterers can deter shoppers, clients, and tenants alike from patronizing a property, and can make them feel unsafe.
Loitering and trespassing can also lead to additional criminal activity that can create more complex security concerns and have serious consequences for your bottom line. While vagrancy isn’t illegal in all states, in Nevada it is a crime that can be charged against anyone who appears to be homeless or without visible means of support. It may not be frequently enforced, but can result in significant penalties, including jail time.
At approximately 5:40 a.m., Stealth security professionals monitoring a Nevada shopping center observed a loiterer approaching the property and settling down with what appeared to be their possessions to sleep. Audible alarms were immediately activated to warn the vagrant off the premises, but they were unresponsive. Local police dispatch was contacted due to the nature of the activity being observed. Responding officers arrived quickly, making contact with the individual and appearing to take them into custody.
Proactive Security is the Best Solution for Vagrancy and Trespassing Issues
Many commercial properties rely on mobile patrols, on-site guards, or courtesy patrols to help prevent loitering and trespassing on their premises. Unfortunately, these options can prove extremely costly and come with their own sets of concerns. There are no standard training practices for security guards, and many are not equipped or motivated to deal with stressful situations- often the circumstances when engaging with loiterers and vagrants that may be experiencing substance abuse or mental health crises.
A security guard whose response is inappropriate could result in an escalated situation, or a liability concern for property owners and managers.
Security guards are also limited in their view, which means criminals and others can easily evade detection. Stealth’s live video monitoring solution helps reduce all these issues. It’s cost-effective, has a wider range of visibility on the property, and highly trained security monitoring operators are remote, limiting potential liability risks.
Stealth’s trained security professionals monitor strategically placed, customizable, analytics-based cameras simultaneously. If they see suspicious or unusual activity, they can activate on-site alarms to warn suspects off the property and that they’re being recorded, which is often more than enough to deter them. In the event that a situation requires police intervention, they can contact police dispatch with live, real-time details and descriptions of activity in progress, which typically results in elevated call priority and faster police response times.
Interested in learning more about how you can help reduce vagrancy, loitering, and trespassing issues at your shopping center for up to 60% less than traditional guards? Contact us now and request a free quote. Texas Private Security License Number: B14187
