We’ve been following this since it first came to my attention in mid-November here and here.
It’s the latest action General Motors is taking against Renaissance Center Management Co., the private security force that was created by the company to patrol Detroit’s iconic riverfront RenCen. GM contracts with G4S to provide the security services through the company, according to court records.
Officers can no longer carry handcuffs, according to Kevin Kelly, a spokesperson for GM. The number of officers allowed to carry guns has also been reduced, although some still carry weapons for protection against dangers like active shooters, he said.
“Oh what a tangled web we weave…”
The private security force is majority-owned by G4S Secure Solutions, an international security company based in Florida, according to court documents filed in 2022. Allied Universal acquired G4S in April 2021. GM, G4S and RCMC have each been named in various lawsuits.
Separate investigations by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) and Michigan State Police are ongoing.
My take? I thought you’d never ask. GM should at bare minimum terminate immediately their contracts with Renaissance Center Management Co. G4S Secure Solutions Allied Universal whomever they need to and find another agency that acts less (allegedly) like the Hells Angels at Altamont.
Alternate links for your convenience…