Security expert weighs in on armed Richmond City Hall guards

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Security at some city buildings is changing under a new contract that calls for armed guards at Richmond facilities.

On Monday, Jan. 12, Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II said the city entered a contract with a new security firm that provides armed guards at city buildings.

Donald said the city has made changes to be able to have the new contracts, but it's unclear if all security guards at city facilities are now armed.

The move is intended to address changing security needs, though some security experts question whether the change is necessary.

"It sends a message that says, this place is dangerous," said Mike Jones, owner and founder of Major Security Consulting and Design.

Jones, a retired police chief, said arming guards is becoming more common.

"There's a big difference between security guards and police officers… The issue with firearms by folks who are not trained police officers is that you're talking about a deadly weapon," he said.

Donald said training is one reason the new contract is more expensive.

A presentation shows that the new deal will cost the city about $8 million a year -- $1 million more than the previous security vendor. However, Jones noted the change could help streamline staffing.

"It also kind of results in less officers as well," Donald said.

Jones said there are alternative ways to improve safety.

"What they need is to bring in a professionally trained company that knows what to do and can give them recommendations," he said.

Donald did not confirm if all guards are currently armed, but one city official confirmed that armed personnel are already present at City Hall.