A San Diego nonprofit organization that serves disadvantaged people recently fired its security company after the San Diego Union-Tribune inquired about a videotape that shows guards confronting and detaining some homeless men loitering near a creek bed.
The man, who later in the video identifies himself as Deangelo Mitchell, was one of three men who had wandered into Chollas Creek, near the Jacobs Center, before they were approached by four Chula Vista Private Security guards. Under state law, private security guards may only use reasonable force if they feel threatened. Guards are not permitted to seize property — even contraband.
“JCNI believed CVPS would remove trespassers by asking them to leave or by calling the police,” the statement said. “It appears CVPS personnel’s actions were inconsistent with our expectation and agreement.” Gines said two guards were fired and two suspended, although one of the guards disputed to the Union-Tribune that he was fired. Gines also said he stepped up his background checks for new hires and ordered additional training so guards know their legal and professional boundaries.San Diego police received the video in December and interviewed the guards. None of the men who were handcuffed filed complaints. Police Lt.
But Avila, who had been on the job for less than two weeks at the time of the encounter, rejected that claim.