West Hollywood Security Ambassador fights a homeless man – NBC Los Angeles

A homeless man was cited by authorities following an altercation Sunday with a West Hollywood Security Ambassador that was recorded on video, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said.

In video shared on social media of the confrontation, the Security Ambassador in a bright yellow uniform appears to throw several punches at the man on a sidewalk at West Hollywood Park. Another Security Ambassador can be seen stepping in between the two during the struggle and breaking up the altercation.

It was not immediately clear what led to the confrontation, but the sheriff’s department told NBCLA that deputies responded to a battery call on the security officer. The homeless man received a citation, according to the department.

The agency said it has viewed the video and another video that it said appears to show the Ambassador was the victim. NBCLA has not reviewed that video.

The city of West Hollywood issued a statement, saying it is aware of the video and has started a review.

“The City and its contracted partner for the Security Ambassadors program, Allied Universal, are deeply concerned by what is depicted in the video. We take this matter very seriously,” the city said. “The City’s Community Safety Department has initiated a thorough review and is actively gathering all relevant information to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“The Security Ambassadors program is designed to enhance safety in West Hollywood. Ambassadors are expected to conduct themselves professionally and in accordance with the City’s standards, including treating every individual, including those experiencing homelessness, with dignity and respect. Accountability and transparency are essential; if the City’s review determines that policies, protocols, or contractual expectations were not followed, appropriate action will be taken. The safety and well-being of our community is the City of West Hollywood’s highest priority. We are committed to maintaining community safety while upholding public trust and our core value of respect and support for all members of our community.”

The Security Ambassadors program was established in 2013 to provide a visible security presence on West Hollywood street. That presence includes kiosks, patrols, special events and the transit Security Ambassadors program with members deployed on major streets, alleys, parking lots and other locations.

The program collaborates with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department station in West Hollywood.

Allied Universal also issued a statement about the park altercation.

“Allied Universal is dedicated to helping keep the community of West Hollywood safe,” the company said. “The employee involved in this incident has been removed from the site pending an investigation.”