Guards, Security Training On Rise

A rise in workplace violence has forced many local businesses to hire guards and provide security training to employees.

“It’s our biggest fear,” said Shelia Leslie, vice president of Argus Services, a security agency in the Valley.

The majority of victims in these crimes are female workers. The perpetrators are usually estranged spouses or boyfriends, according to Sandy Richards, the crime prevention specialist for the police department.

The exact number of incidents in Spokane isn’t known because the Spokane Police Department files such cases under the general category of assault.

Nationwide, the leading cause of death for women in the workplace is homicide - not industrial accidents, Richards said.

She travels from one business to another educating companies about security.

“A well-trained security guard is a good deterrent. It’s important for the guard to be visible and to know the people in the building.”

, DataTimes