Prison Escapees Impersonate Security Officers

AUSTIN (01/10/01) - The seven Texas prison escapees that brutally murdered officer Aubry Hawkins on Christmas Eve reportedly gained access to the Oshmans sporting goods store in Irving by impersonating security officers.

Walt Roberts, President of the Association of Security Services and Investigators of the State Of Texas, (ASSIST), today issued a warning to all shop owners, storekeepers and citizens of Texas.

"Any individual who says that they are a security officer or an investigator must have an identification card that has been issued by the Texas Commission on Private Security." Roberts said. "If they don't have the ID card, get away from the them as soon as possible and notify police."

Security officers and investigators in Texas must undergo criminal background checks, maintain liability insurance and successfully complete all state mandated training requirements before they are issued their identification cards.

Roberts says that the seven prison escapees are not the first to gain the confidence of potential victims by posing as security officers.

"There are many cases of criminals who have robbed or violated individuals while posing as a security officers." Roberts continued "Some of them have stolen or purchased security officer uniforms in order to commit their crimes."

He says that in Texas it is not currently against the law to impersonate a security officer, but he is hoping that situation will soon change.

He says that his association is actively supporting legislation that will make impersonating a security officer illegal in our state.

State Representative Pat Haggerty, R- El Paso plans to introduce the Legislation during the current session of the legislature that will make the practice illegal in Texas.

Roberts also states that currently there is no requirement that security officers and investigators produce their identification card to the public upon demand. He says however, that "any legitimate security officer or investigator will gladly show their identification upon request."

Roberts says that until the new laws are passed the public must beware of anyone who might be impersonation a security officer or investigator in the state of Texas.

He adds that any security officer or licensed investigator may be verified by contacting the Texas Commission on Private Security in Austin.

For any additional information contact Walt Roberts at (214) 946-2625.

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