Dean Marino
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jun 3, 2015
I'm curious what the difference between a "CM" and a "security guard" is...
Mickey cops don't get trained in SWAT or anything.
A good question to ask. In essence? VERY LITTLE.
THIS is why the Orange County Police, and WDW, have a contract. I have no idea of the DETAILS of that contract - only that it insures an authorized, legitimate, ARMED law enforcement presence at WDW.
Now, this is a very good thing. The WDW Security People are absolutely wonderful - but they are NOT POLICE OFFICERS. And DAILY, WDW NEEDS the real deal. It is literally a major city - a relatively behaved major city, but far too large to rely solely on Security Guards. I have no statistics - but based on the every changing population of this "city", and it's average size? They likely encounter a number of armed robberies, assaults, break ins.... pretty much everything we get in our HOME cities. They NEED real Officers, with the power of arrest, and guns.
So what does WDW Security do? A LOT. 99% of the crap that is likely to occur at WDW can be handled very well by an un-armed Security Force that knows the parks, and the people that typically visit them. No one needs a gun to search a bag - they DO need serious dedication. They could be killed at any instant. No one needs a gun to help a lost child... or to resolve the issue of the occasional drunk. Or a fight when it's hot, and people get impatient....
Next time you see a Security Guy or Gal? Please... say thanks - and that you get it . They ARE CMs, there for your first line protection - always knowing that they are NOT the Police, but that they have the PROPER backup. They are absolutely NOT that rent a cop at Walmart . Disney does a wonderful job recruiting real PROFESSIONALS for these positions (most ARE retired Law Enforcement).
Side note - I have no affiliation with these folks.... I am NOT a retired Officer. I HAVE researched the duties, responsibilities, and limitations, of these fine individuals.
SECOND Side Note: One day, if it has not already occurred and we just don't know about it.... these CMs WILL be the front line dealing with yet another Mid East Terrorist plot. WDW is just too big a target, and filthy animals go AFTER large targets.... it will (possibly already has) happen(ed). Next time it takes a bit to check your bag? Smile . Say "thank you" Bet you make that person's day.