Following allegations of racism and abuse at the GM RenCen in Detroit, private security personnel will no longer have the authority to make arrests. This decision comes after accusations of racial profiling and excessive force by security officers licensed under Public Act 330 (PA330).

RenCen Security Surrenders PA330 License

Tim Burgeois, the executive director of the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards, announced that security officers with the Renaissance Center Management Corporation (RCMC) ceased making arrests in December 2023. They are set to surrender their PA330 license by March 12.

Accusations of Racial Profiling and Excessive Force

Allegations emerged accusing security officers at the RenCen of racial profiling and using excessive force against individuals deemed undesirables. A security director at the Renaissance Center revealed a directive to focus on these individuals, predominantly Black men and women, over the past six years.

Claims of Institutional Racism

Robert Barnes, a long-time security employee at the RenCen, alleged that the shift towards aggressive tactics and racial profiling began when Larry Payne assumed the role of security director in 2017. Barnes claimed that the culture change was evident, with a focus on targeting individuals labeled as 211s, a code for undesirables.

General Motors’ Response

In response to the allegations, General Motors removed the accused officers pending investigation. The company, in partnership with G4 Secure Solutions USA, its security contractor, is conducting a review. The decision to remove the officers followed a report by TLNA2, shedding light on years of racism and abuse within the Renaissance Center.

Investigations Underway

Michigan State Police have launched investigations into the criminal allegations. One incident highlighted in the report involved Demarco Brown, who was allegedly assaulted by security officers in October 2020. Brown, attempting to re-enter the RenCen Marriott, faced aggression from security personnel despite posing no threat and making no physical contact.

Upholding Accountability and Equality

As allegations of racism and abuse surface at the GM RenCen in Detroit, it underscores the importance of accountability and equality within security operations. The decision to remove security officers accused of misconduct reflects a commitment to addressing systemic issues and ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals, regardless of race or background. Moving forward, thorough investigations and transparent actions are imperative to uphold principles of justice and fairness in private security practices.

Source