ANTIOCH, Calif. – After a recent police shooting in downtown Antioch, city officials have approved the hiring of private security to address concerns about crime in the area. The decision comes after downtown merchants raised complaints about criminal activities and the need for increased safety measures.
The City Council unanimously agreed to allocate $150,000 from the general fund for private security to patrol public parking lots and other city assets over the next fiscal year. Acting City Manager Kwame Reed mentioned that a small group of business owners had been meeting with city staff since 2022 to address criminal activities in or near downtown parking lots.
The push for additional security measures stemmed from a “horrific crime” that occurred in a downtown parking lot, according to Councilman Mike Barbanica, who did not disclose specific details. The decision to hire private security prompted mixed reactions from the community, with some residents expressing approval and others questioning why the city was not utilizing its own police force.
The move to hire private security comes at a time when half of Antioch’s police force has been placed on leave or given light duty following ongoing investigations. Resident Andrew Becker, a former private security firm manager, raised concerns about the lack of a shelter for the unhoused population and emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address transient activities.
Despite the decision, questions remain about the duties of the security guards and the potential expansion of security to other city parking lots. City officials stated that additional areas could be included in a new contract at a later time.
In the wake of recent criminal activities, the hiring of private security in downtown Antioch reflects the city’s efforts to address safety concerns and protect its public spaces. By allocating funds for increased security measures, city officials hope to improve the overall sense of safety for residents and visitors in the downtown area.