HW Security

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Celebrity Protection

Robert Matthiessen John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, NY USA Keywords Celebrity protection-site advance-motorcade and route management-formations-paparazzi

Definition

Celebrity protection is the protection of a human asset against harassment, injury, death and embarrassment

Introduction

When analyzing celebrity protection some would argue that it is the same as executive

protection, which are all part of the principles and fundamentals of close-protection security.

There are many variations in the close-protection field when it comes to protecting the human

asset. As mentioned, the fundamentals and principles remain the same if you are going to

ensure an effective protection strategy. However, one difference between providing executive

compared to celebrity protection security is the latter’s public exposure, but there are other

differences between the two.

When analyzing executive protection in comparison to celebrity protection, it should be noted

that executives are more reserved and unwilling to engage in extensive public interaction

compared to their celebrity counterparts. Most executives are corporate leaders responsible

for making important decisions for the company and their shareholders. Their unnecessary

exposure can result in danger by an unsuspecting individual. Since there is no immediate need

for unnecessary public exposure executives are primarily shielded from this level of threat. The

executive protection professional would advise against unnecessary or high-risk exposure when

it is not necessary, and for the most part the executive usually complies. On the contrary,

celebrities for the most part are dependent on their fan base and are more willing to interact

and be seen and photographed in public (Holder & Hawley, 1998).

This entry will identify celebrity security as the close-protection professional (CPP). If you look at

various videos and news reports, celebrities are the most exposed and accessible people in a

close-protection environment. The ability to navigate crowds and paparazzi in a public space

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can be very demanding, if not dangerous, for both the celebrity and the CPP. The ability of the

CPP to protect a celebrity from harm and/or embarrassment will depend on the training and

experience of the CPP to perceive danger, react quickly, but also to remain rational and

professional at all times. When celebrities are seen in public they are usually surrounded by an

entourage of staff and security. The differences between executive protection professionals and

CPP for celebrities are many times reflected by the security person’s size, demeanor and even attire.

Unfortunately, celebrities believe that bigger means better and having large and muscular individuals

hovering around them will ensure their safety. This is the farthest from the truth, because close-

protection security is based proven tactics, principles and practices and not presence and behavior.

A nightmare scenario for a celebrity is exiting a location and being surrounded by both fans and

paparazzi in an uncontrolled environment. Security in their attempts to keep the crowd away from the

celebrity will engage in aggressive behavior towards fans and paparazzi to keep them away from the

celebrity. The aggressive behavior exhibited, which may consist of pushing, shoving or shielding the

celebrity from the crowd can lead to confrontation between security and the public. Tactics or actions

like this put the CPP and the celebrity in a dangerous position. The overall problem with this is it can

remove security from their position with the celebrity, thus increasing the vulnerability levels for the

celebrity. Aggressive behavior by the CPP when it could have been avoided can very well result in an

escalated situation that may lead to an assault or injury for the CPP, celebrity or other people. Incidents

like this should not occur and it is up to the CPP to avoid situations where a crowd can surround the

celebrity, thus limiting maneuverability. Training and experience are the most critical tenets for the CPP.

They must anticipate potential threats and dangerous environments before risking exposure in an

attempt to keep the celebrity safe (Holder & Hawley, 1998).

Celebrities come from many different industries, whether music or movies, and each will have a level of

tolerance for navigating in the public domain. Celebrities will also want to participate in the party scene

and will be exposed to drugs, physical altercations, dangerous weapons, intoxicated fans, and overly

aggressive paparazzi. The CPP will be exposed to many dangerous and even criminal environments, in

which some celebrities but not executives, engage because of mutual friends or other reasons. The CPP

must make a decision whether to continue to provide protection, disengage from the celebrity or

attempt to remove the celebrity from a known dangerous environment. The advent of social media

increases the overall risk of the celebrity and the CPP as snapchat and other networking application alert

fans and stalkers alike of the celebrity’s whereabouts. The CPP must use caution when escorting a

celebrity and identify potential dangers before entering a public environment. Past experiences should

drive the CPP when planning security for the celebrity. Previous locations visited, which resulted in

paparazzi and fan attendance should use advance security personnel to assess and prepare the arrival

for the celebrity to reduce the risk of injury to the celebrity and confrontation for the CPP (Oatman,

2006). Often times, celebrities will determine how they enter a location, exit a location or interact with

their fans and paparazzi. The CPP who follows orders and direction from the celebrity without analyzing

the threat and risk levels is contributing to the dangers that can confront them. The principles and

tactics used by protection professionals have been proven to be effective and the CPP must adhere to

them for the safety of all people with or around the celebrity.

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Myths and Roles and Responsibility of the Close- Protection Professional (CPP)

There are many myths associated with close-protection security and the main one is that the CPP will

take a bullet for the person being protected. This is nonsense, as no federal agent, local law

enforcement or private security professional trained in close-protection swears to “take a bullet” when

assigned to protect a human asset. The main responsibility of the CPP is to remove the celebrity from

the danger zone using a cover and evacuate (C&E) method (Oatman, 2006). The CPP must always focus

on prevention and the avoidance of trouble, rather than combating it. Equally, the CPP must also remain

low-key, calm and rational in many adverse and stressful situations. An effective professional providing

close-protection security must be able to analyze the environment for potential danger before they

enter into it. The CPP must maintain continuous levels of training in order to remain effective as a

protector of the celebrity. The ability to navigate a crisis situation in a calm and professional manner is

attributed to the professionalism, training, experience and advancements in close-protection security

training. Changes to the threat environment because of terrorism, social discord or mental illness

continue to change the landscape for celebrities and it is up to the CPP to meet these security challenges

each and every day. The need of the celebrity to interact with the general public is a constant and will

require a dedicated and intelligent individual to ensure the safety and security of the celebrity at all

times.

Protection strategies must consider threats from criminal groups, fans, and emotionally disturbed

people. Many celebrities, even in the face of known threats and increase risk, continue to interact with

their fan base both domestically and abroad. It is also important the CPP evaluate both the religious and

cultural diversities within the U.S. and across the globe, as actions or just the appearance of the

celebrity can result in increased levels of threat and risk. Anticipating and responding to this type of

threat will be a difficult undertaking and will require comprehensive security and counter surveillance

planning. The celebrity may become a victim of stalking, or an attack from a fan or mentally ill individual,

so the potential danger against the celebrity must be taken seriously. Basic cookie-cutter security

planning for a celebrity is not enough, and it will take analysis and comprehensive assessments of known

and potential threats to ensure an effective security plan. However, overwhelming the celebrity with

convoluted security procedures can equally fail because of frustration on the part of the celebrity to

follow the security protocols. The CPP must provide a safe environment for the celebrity that is not

overly intrusive; overwhelming or hindering; as this can result in confusion and possible conflict

between the celebrity and the CPP (Oatman, 2006).

The CPP must be prepared to explain the security plan to the celebrity and having good communication

skills, manners, intelligence and common sense will equally contribute to a successful close-protection

security strategy. This can help in ensuring the security plan is not only approved, but embraced by the

celebrity. The CPP must remember that human emotions will come into play when formulating

protective security measures; and it is up to the CPP to develop and maintain a professional relationship,

not only with the celebrity, but also with the celebrity’s family. There is no room for error in protection

security as mistakes, redundancy or complacency will surely result in injury, if not death, for both the

celebrity and the CPP. The CPP will be tasked with many requests for services as some may be directly

part of their duties and responsibilities, and some may not. The CPP must communicate the specific

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responsibilities to the celebrity and alert anyone who requests or instructs that a service or task that is

dangerous or takes the CPP away from performing their primary duties is respectfully refused.

Setting a professional standard early on will ensure the CPP and the celebrity understands what is

expected and what is not tolerated. The CPP can be respectful and professional while maintaining the

primary role as a protection professional. Once this rule is violated and the CPP begins conducting non-

security related tasks the effectiveness of the CPP is reduced to being an aide. This will eventually lead

to confusion and frustration for the CPP and it will reduce the overall security environment for the

celebrity. The CPP must have their hands free at all times and remain disciplined as to not violate this

important rule. Allowing and accommodating the celebrity’s requests for carrying packages or holding

personal items will result in the CPP becoming disengaged and not focused. It is only a matter of time

before a serious incident will occur resulting in injury to the celebrity and the CPP. Though, many would

differ with this position in a real-world environment, it must be understood that the CPP cannot, and

should not, partake in activities or conduct that allows the CPP to not be tactically ready in the event of

an attack (Dale, 2008).

Site Advance

Conducting a comprehensive and effective site advance is a term used to ensure the location the

celebrity will visit is safe; and the necessary security precautions and planning have been conducted.

Site advance is a critical part of close-protection security and will encompass many areas, activities and

locations the celebrity will visit. Arriving at a location prior to the celebrity will ensure that the location is

safe, as well as secured to prevent an attack or incident from occurring. This important responsibility can

help in preventing harm or even embarrass to the celebrity. The advance person must survey the

location for dangerous conditions that could affect the safety of the celebrity and the security team. The

CPP must also coordinate with the host committee representatives to confirm and verify the specific

activities that will take place when the celebrity arrives.

The CPP should request support from security and engineering staff at the location to help with

identifying a primary and secondary access point, internal and external threat information for the

location, infrastructure concerns, and any other important information relating to the location that

could affect the security and safety of the celebrity. The site advance should evaluate the exterior for

large crowds, paparazzi, unusual behavior or dangerous conditions. The arrival area should be clear and

metal barriers used to “contain” the crowd and paparazzi so the celebrity is not surrounded upon exiting

their motorcade. Large uncontrolled crowds can restrict the movement of the celebrity and the security

team, as well as increase the risk of injury to the celebrity. If the crowd or paparazzi will not adhere and

remain behind the barriers, the CPP should consider, not removing the celebrity from the motorcade,

consider using a secondary arrival location away from the crowd, or depart the area all together. The

same applies for a departure, which many times will occur when the public is alerted that a celebrity is

present at a location and they are now staged in front. If the crowd becomes too overwhelming, the

police should be requested for crowd control and alternate departure plans considered to avoid direct

interacting with the crowd. The primary reason for avoiding the crowd is the protection of the celebrity

and the CPP (Dale, 2008).

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Counter Surveillance

Counter surveillance for the celebrity can be difficult as the celebrity is usually surrounded by fans and

curiosity seekers. The CPP most likely will encounter overzealous fans and possible stalkers. A potential

threat must be identified and precautions taken to ensure the safety of the celebrity. A comprehensive

close-protection security plan must include effective and robust counter surveillance strategies. The

ability of the CPP to identify potential attackers must be a priority of the CPP. When threatening or

harassing information is received, the CPP must conduct a thorough investigation to ensure all

information regarding the individual or group is known; so any security enhancements; if needed; are

conducted. Protection intelligence requires gathering information, including any threatening

communications against the celebrity towards developing a comprehensive background of the person.

This should include a description of the person, any background information, such as mental illness,

criminal history, access to weapons and if they are prone to violence. A recent color photo should be

obtained and shared with the celebrity, their staff and the entire CPP team of the celebrity. The

information should be continuously updated, analyzed and used to direct the necessary security

changes towards addressing the threat and reducing any risks. Threats made to the celebrity should be

forwarded to law enforcement for investigation, and if necessary, possible arrest. It is important that the

CPP advise the celebrity of the seriousness of following all security recommendations to ensure the

highest level of safety and security (Dale, 2008; USDS, 1998).

First-Aid

Administrating first-aid must also be part of the celebrity protection plan. Providing immediate medical

treatment in the event of an attack, medical condition or accident is the responsibility of the CPP. First-

aid planning and training must include CPR, providing direct pressure for trauma injuries and being

aware of medical conditions of the celebrity. The CPP should be certified in first-aid and certification

should be renewed every year. The CPP should be familiar with area hospitals and include in the

motorcade route plans the names and addresses; and if it is a Level-One Trauma center. The CPP should

be familiar with any medicines or medical conditions the celebrity has to advise emergency room

physicians when needed (Oatman, 2006).

Threat Assessment Analysis

A threat assessment has become a valuable tool in the close-protection field. Many governmental

agencies and private security firms use this important tool in calculating risk. Here we learn the

importance of using a threat assessment to identify potential dangers that the celebrity may encounter.

When tasked with developing a threat assessment on the celebrity, the CPP must gather as much

information as possible on the person(s) who may have an interest, motive, intention and more

importantly, the capability of mounting an attack. Gauging the possibility of a potential attack is critical

to the protection of the celebrity and the CPP (USDJ, 2000). The information must include all data and

other sources of information pertaining to the celebrity and his or her family. Open source information,

known threatening communications and paid intelligence services can all help in calculating a

comprehensive threat assessment. Known threateners should be investigated and a records check

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conducted to include criminal history, mental health, community relations, and social services.

Individual motives related to the behavior of a potential attacker also play a role in the overall threat

assessment process. Unfortunately, there is no one descriptive profile of an attacker. Assassins come in

many shapes, sizes, intelligence and other characteristics. However, an attacker will engage in familiar

behaviors and actions before they attack.

When a person decides to mount an attack on a target, a number of preparatory steps must be taken.

These steps have visual characteristics that can be observed by the CPP. These steps would most likely

include acquiring a weapon, surveying security near the celebrity and the development of an attack and

escape plan. A misconception the CPP can make is to analyze threatening information based on a

presumption that a potential attacker is always mentally ill. Research on known threateners has

disclosed only a small percentage is actually emotionally disturbed. On the contrary, most attackers

chose assassination because it afforded them a way of achieving a goal, or to solve a problem.

Additionally, another myth of a potential attacker is that a threat is made prior to the attack. Though,

many have written letters or made threatening telephone calls, the majority of assassins were not

known or anticipated because they were anonymous until the day they decided to attack (USDJ, 2000).

Close Protection Terminology

Close-protection security uses specific terminology to ensure confidentiality and operational security for

the celebrity, their family and the security team. Exposing specific addresses; names and activities can

be very detrimental to the celebrity and the CPP; as it can alert a potential attacker where the celebrity

is located; the time of arrival; the location; and what activity will take place when the celebrity arrives.

The CPP should utilize “code words” that are changed regularly to ensure that any stalkers, criminals,

hackers or potential attackers cannot obtain sensitive information that could help in executing a

successful attack on the celebrity. These code words can be used for residences, scheduled locations

and activities, as well as motorcade movements on a secured route. The use of checkpoints, which are

described over a security team communication radio, can alert the entire security team of where the

celebrity is in relation to the site and within the motorcade route (Holder & Hawley, 1998).

Attack on the Principal: AOP

It is likely that the celebrity may at some point be the target of an attack, whether by gun, knife, or even

a whipped cream pie. Either way, if the celebrity is attacked, the CPP has failed. The CPP’s ability to

perceive and identify danger will be in question and re-training will be needed. Tactics are available that

many CPP use to combat a threat, but constant vigilance and attitude is equally important. One primary

tactic used is known as the “Arms-Reach” method. The Arms-Reach method means the CPP is always at

“arms-reach” from the celebrity so the CPP can move them from the danger zone when needed. Firstly,

awareness by the CPP that a gun or other weapon has been produced in the presence of the celebrity is

critical. The CPP must now act instantaneously and “Sound Off,” “Cover,” and “Evacuate.” If the attack is

from an object that is thrown, i.e., a brick, an egg, or a liquid, the “Arms Reach” method is used to

remove the celebrity to a safe area or location, such as a room or the motorcade. If the incident is

found only to be a thrown egg and no immediate threat of injury is present, the CPP can allow the

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celebrity to return to the area where the incident occurred, if deemed to be safe. The use of the “clock

method” to identify the location of a threat is an effective way to determine where the threat is in

relation to the celebrity and the CPP. This successful tactic uses the 12 o’clock position, which consists of

identifying a fixed object on a wall or location. If an attack or weapon is produced, the CPP using the

clock method should identify the threat from its position in the clock. For example, if someone produces

a knife at the three o’clock position, the CPP should cover and evacuate the celebrity towards the 12, 6

or 9 o’clock position if possible. The concept is to remove the celebrity from the threat and out of the

immediate danger zone (USDS, 1998).

Close-Protection Formations

Each situation is determined by environmental circumstances that will either allow or disallow a CPP to

make certain adjustments to a formation. Alternate and contingency plans should also be prepared to

cover such circumstances, as weather, threats, or any other actions that may affect the security of the

celebrity. Security planning is the responsibility of the CPP working with the celebrity. The protective

security team should remain close to the celebrity at all times, because the overall objective is to protect

the celebrity from harm and/or embarrassment. Protecting the celebrity will require utilizing effective

protective formations, which can be used in certain circumstances. The formations being discussed are

all part of a holistic and effective close-protection security strategy to ensure that security personnel are

placed strategically around the person being protected. Protective formations are all part of a structured

security environment that can help circumvent any attempt from someone attempting possible harm. It

must be stated that protective formations are not an absolute; however; it can help in ensuring security

is placed around the celebrity to lower the risk. The following formations are used in close-protection

security today and have proven to be an effective and resilient tool in the overall security plan.

Lone formation utilizes one security person with the celebrity and can be used in both internal and

external movements. The lone formation requires the CPP to stand behind the celebrity at an angle and

not directly behind for better field of view and observation. Known as the number one, this person is

responsible for removing the celebrity from the area when required. In order for the number one to be

effective the CPP must maintain an “arm’s reach” from the celebrity at all times in the event of an

attack. It is important that the CPP remain vigilant and maintain the “arms reach” behind the celebrity at

all times. Unfortunately, this is not always possible because of reluctance of the celebrity to allow the

CPP to be so close. However, allowing too much distance (more than arm’s reach) between the celebrity

and the CPP can result in injury if the person cannot be removed from a dangerous environment quickly

(Dale, 2008).

Another formation utilized is known as the slash or sweep formation, which requires an advance person

to lead the protective formation. This formation requires a two-person security team; one as the

advance, who knows exactly where the team must go, and the number-one who is responsible for the

safety and security of the celebrity. However, human nature will play a role in how the protective

formation is effective when dealing with an attack. Instinct and human reaction many times causes

individuals to engage an attacker when their responsibility may have been to the celebrity. Another

formation is known as the wedge formation, which will require more security personnel and should be

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used when a higher threat level has been assessed for the celebrity. The use of an advance person, a

number one behind the celebrity and another CPP positioned on the opposite side of the number one

can enhance the overall security environment. This formation is used in public settings where access by

the public is possible.

Close Protection Motorcades and Route Management

A major part of the close-protection security plan is the development of a robust transportation safety

structure. Motorcade and route management is a primary security mechanism for the celebrity’s

security plan. Ensuring that the celebrity and the security team remains safe will require strategic and

critical thinking skills that anticipates danger and ensures the CPP can respond quickly and effectively in

the event of an attack. Motorcades can range from one or more vehicles; and though motorcades sizes

may vary; the fundamentals remain the same. Vehicle transportation is considered vulnerable, because

the CPP team is not in a strategic and ready position. Individuals attempting to photograph or even

harm the celebrity can easily approach the motorcade. This is a dangerous scenario and is up to the CPP

team to remain vigilant and anticipate any and all threats that can occur. Motorcade planning must

ensure that the CPP is trained in evasive driving techniques. There are various independent and

accredited schools that can train the CPP in evasive driving techniques throughout the country. The CPP

driver must operate the vehicle in a safe and responsible manner at all times and only when under

attack should the operator make any evasive moves.

The celebrity is the primary asset in a motorcade and whatever vehicle the celebrity is situated in the

vehicle will be identified as the limo. The celebrity should be situated in the right rear of the limo, as this

is done for on-side arrivals. The CPP must develop secured routes when transporting the celebrity in the

motorcade. The first designated route is known as the primary route, followed by a secondary route and

in certain circumstances a tertiary route may be designated. Multiple routes are needed in the event of

threatening information, an attack, hostile surveillance or a traffic condition. The CPP must observe all

road and environmental conditions and potential problems on a particular route. Challenges and

potential threats include construction, traffic congestion; demonstrations, roadway chock points, as well

as weather and pavement condition. These are just a few of the concerns the CPP must anticipate,

assess and calculate when developing motorcade routes (Dale, 2008). The routes should be determined

based on safety, but also the ability to evacuate and retreat in the event of an attack. Safe locations or

safe havens on the route would include police stations, fire stations, hospitals, government buildings

and even corporate locations that have security positioned in the lobby.

Motorcade Alignment and Vehicle Positioning

The positioning of the motorcade vehicles are critically important and part of a strategic design platform

in close-protection security. The theory of aligning cars is part of a security environment that does not

expose the celebrity unnecessarily and provides tactical positioning for the CPP. After the vehicles have

been inspected and secured they are now ready for alignment and positioning. A motorcade

configuration should include a lead car to pilot the motorcade. The lead car will know the motorcade

routes and act as an advance towards identifying hostile surveillance or a dangerous condition that may

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affect the motorcade’s movement. The second vehicle in the alignment is known as the limo, which was

previously discussed. The third vehicle in the motorcade is known as the follow vehicle, which will have

additional security personnel who are part of the protection team. They will form a protective formation

around the celebrity once he or she exits the motorcade. This is known as a secured package and it is

also utilized in many diplomatic and executive protection security details. The vehicles should be the

same make, model and color to avoid an attacker or paparazzi from easily identifying the vehicle

carrying the celebrity.

The positioning of the motorcade with the limo in the center also allows the follow-vehicle to become a

replacement vehicle for the celebrity in the event that the limo was to become disabled. Strategies such

as these have been very effective in maintaining a high standard of security for the all types of close-

protection security. Motorcade movement is a critical part of the security plan as the celebrity may

decide to walk or jog on occasion. The motorcade must shadow the celebrity during these moves.

Though, this is not always possible the security team should ensure that routes are determined if

possible prior to any walking moves. Routes for the celebrity when walking should be with the flow of

traffic so the motorcade can proceed and continue to shadow at a close distance. Counter flow is not

recommended as it will cause the motorcade to reposition away from the celebrity, which increases the

overall risk exposure in the event of an incident or attack (Dale, 2008).

Physical Security Concepts and Residential Security

The CPP team will also be responsible for surveying and installing physical security measures around the

celebrity’s residence. Since many attacks especially, kidnapping attempts, occur at a person's residence

providing productive and effective security protection measures will be a necessary component of the

close-protection plan. Implementing physical barriers, such as fencing and motion sensor lighting will

protect the perimeter from a possible intruder. CCTV surveillance cameras should also be installed,

which the CPP, as well as the celebrity can view the property both remotely and while inside the

residence. Additional security measures include a grade 1 or 2 locking mechanism, solid wood doors on

the exterior of the residence, as well as anti-shattering window filming. Interior rooms of the residence

should have intrusion detection sensors on windows and doors, glass break detection and life safety

equipment such as CO2 and smoke detection. Panic room consideration should also be part of the

security survey and rooms within the residence should be identified as potential panic rooms (USDS,

1998).

Attire and Equipment

The CPP must wear appropriate attire that is conducive to the professional environment they are

working in. Like training, professionalism and attitude, having the proper equipment and presenting an

assertive look are important in the overall protection of the celebrity. This section will describe the

equipment needed for the CPP and the clothes that should be worn. When assigned to the protective

security detail, the member needs to obtain certain equipment that will assist in the protection of the

celebrity. Protection equipment will vary from team to team and from environment to environment.

Individuals may feel the need to equip themselves with the necessary items that will do the job at-hand.

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As a member of the security team, you are on the front lines, not only in regards to an attack, but in the

public’s eye. The message sent will have an impact on the celebrity and the entire team. Personal

appearance is as important as training, and both need to be followed and practiced on a continuous

basis. The following is a guide on the proper dress code for a member of the security team:

Males and Females:

• Single breasted, dark blue, black, or dark gray suits are preferable

• Dark colored sport coat and slacks can also be worn.

• White or light blue shirts with simple color ties

• Slip-on shoes, rubber sole, preferably black

• Golf shirt with khakis, only under non-business occasions

Equipment

Communications:

• Radio with surveillance kit (earpiece),

• Radio holder, pager (if needed),

• Cellular telephone. Smart phone technology is recommended

Flashlight:

• Compact flashlight with extra batteries

• Writing note pad

• Working black ink pen

• Firearm (if authorized) with belt holster and extra magazine clip. Carry permit and other

identification for law enforcement purposes

References

Dale. J., (2008). Introduction to executive protection. (2ed.) NY. CRC Press

Fein, R., Vossekuil, B., (2000) Protective Intelligence and Threat Assessment Investigations U.S.

Department of Justice.

Holder. P.T. & Hawley, D.L., (1998). The executive protection professional’s manual. MA.

Butterworth-Heinemann

Oatman, R., (2006) Executive protection. New Solutions for a New Era. MD. Noble House

United States Department of State: Protection Training Manual (1998). USDS