Personal Security is Booming in Hollywood and Everywhere Else

The personal security business is booming all over the world as executives, politicians, movie, music, sports stars, are hiring, in many cases, teams of security people to watch over them - if they can afford it. Security is not cheap and it's getting more expensive to get the best or even second best.

To give you an example, the ultra-rich employ 'tasters'. These are highly trained people that are members of a billionaire's advance team who is tasked with going into well-appointed kitchens (where food for a party is being prepared) or exclusive restaurants with a chemical kit which detects the presence of poison. Tasters are becoming the norm among the elitists of the Jetset.

The murder of Brian Thompson, CEO of United Healthcare in NYC established the new normal of executive security. Having no security is now out-of-the-question. Says, Chris Falkenberg, founder of Insite Risk Management, "The security business is the risk business. Real life attacks on the ruling class are becoming more prevalent, including President Trump's campaign season assassination attempts. Also in the crosshairs are the corporate elites, ala Elon Musk."

Some Costs

- Detection kit for poisons in food validated by the Dept. of Defense - $90

- Garrison Bespoke assassin proof menswear known for its style and secure bulletproof suits comprised of carbon nanotubes - $20,000 to start.

 - Miami Armored will outfit a Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV from attacks from grenades to high-caliber assault rifles - $700,000

With relatively easy access to firearms on a global basis and a growing disparity in income inequality the world is becoming a very dangerous place for the top 10 percenters and even those of lesser means. Historically, political figures, popes, and kings were prime targets for assassination. but today it's C suite occupants, and all the way down to influencers and podcasters. Mass media provides the information: names, photos, and even addresses of the Masters of the Universe.

Armored SUVs are the preferred mode of transport for security

All of these conditions have supercharged the private security industry in Hollywood. West Coast protection expert Gavin de Becker is in charge of protecting Jeff Bezos, CEO of Amazon. Bezos normally travels with nine bodyguards and three armed limos.

William Wilson, head of Wilson & Associates Security says, "We live in a world where there is a definite need for proactive security measures. Threats can come from anywhere, from corporate espionage to mentally unstable individuals who take up a gun and start looking to do somebody harm. I've worked with families that will spend $250,000 a year on protection, and companies that spend $15 million a year. Some corporate executives don't go anywhere without an armed protection detail and security drivers with armored SUVs"

So, it seems that the world is getting more dangerous for the rich and powerful and they are answering by upping their personal security and spend as much as they can afford. I think this trend will continue and even the less rich will find ways to protect themselves. 

By: Jim Lavorato