A Firm Stand with a Human Touch

Date: July 11, 2025

Location: Baltimore, MD

The Story:

Security personnel at a local grocery store encountered a man who had been found sleeping on the property on two prior occasions today. The individual was once again on site for the third time and was initially non-compliant when asked to leave. Following protocol, Centennial Protection Group (CPG) officers contacted Baltimore City Police, who responded and assisted in formally issuing a banning/trespass notice.

After continued conversation and support from the CPG officers, the man became cooperative, expressed understanding, and agreed to leave the premises. Before departing, he quietly asked if someone could help him get something to eat.

Without hesitation, Officer S. Randall escorted him inside the store and purchased water, energy drinks, and snacks, allowing him to leave with something in hand and a sense of dignity.

Corporal D. Sullivan, Supervisor at Centennial Protection Group, highlighted the significance of compassion and respect in security enforcement:

“What stood out to me was Officer Randall’s willingness to help someone in need, even after a ban was issued. Despite the difficult circumstances, the individual was treated with dignity and respect. This balance between firm enforcement and human kindness is what truly defines effective security work and what we practice and stress at CPG.”

The Difference:

Enforcing the rules didn’t mean turning off empathy. In that small gesture, Officer S. Randall showed that even in difficult moments, people facing hard times deserve to be treated with compassion, kindness, and recognition of one’s dignity.

Protecting people sometimes means more than enforcing rules!

Contact:

Jennifer Sampson, Media Relations Coordinator

Centennial Protection Group

media@centennialprotects.com | www.centennialprotects.com

Centennial Protection Group Security Team’s Intervention Highlights Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Public Safety

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Baltimore, MD – June 26, 2025 — Centennial Protection Group (CPG) personnel, led by Corporal D. Sullivan, responded to a volatile domestic situation involving a mentally ill individual at a local retail center. Thanks to swift action, strong leadership, and professional coordination with Baltimore Police, the incident was resolved peacefully without harm to anyone involved.

The situation involved an adult male, reportedly suffering from bipolar schizophrenia, who became visibly agitated during a domestic incident. While a BPD officer engaged with the individual’s mother, CPG Corporal D. Sullivan and CPG Officers R. Allen and J. Bush worked to diffuse the subject’s intensifying agitation through calm, measured tactics and successfully de-escalated the individual, preventing the situation from escalating into a potential crisis.

A second aggressive individual, unrelated to the original call, began threatening CPG officers during the incident. The team remained composed, monitored the subject, and ensured public safety without unnecessary confrontation, defusing that situation.

In a time when similar encounters too often end in tragedy, CPG’s professional and compassionate approach prevented escalation and ensured a safe resolution for all parties. The actions of the officers reflect their continued commitment to community safety, mental health awareness, and respectful engagement.

David M. Hopp, President of Centennial Protection Group and a retired Captain with the Maryland State Police, emphasized the importance of empathy and de-escalation in security work:

“As security professionals, we have a responsibility not just to protect, but to understand. Situations involving individuals in mental health crisis demand calm, compassion, and control, not confrontation. I’m proud of our team for recognizing the signs, staying composed, and prioritizing de-escalation. We must always deploy responses that lead with empathy and direct those in crisis toward the help they need, not into harm’s way while being mindful of the safety of all.”

Centennial Protection Group's handling of the incident highlights the organization's commitment to professionalism and public safety. Corporal Sullivan, along with Officers Allen and Bush, demonstrated calm leadership and discipline in a high-risk situation, an approach that ultimately safeguarded everyone involved. Their actions serve as a strong example of how trained security professionals can make a meaningful difference in the communities they protect.

Contact:

Jennifer Sampson, Media Relations Coordinator

Centennial Protection Group

media@centennialprotects.com | www.centennialprotects.com

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Centennial Protection Group Officer’s Quick Thinking Protects Missing Runaway Minor in Baltimore

Baltimore, MD – March 9, 2024 – Officer James Jones of Centennial Protection Group took swift and decisive action to ensure the safety of a 13-year-old runaway at a local shopping plaza, demonstrating exceptional vigilance and concern during the encounter.

While conducting routine patrols, Officer Jones was approached by a young female who appeared lost and asked for directions to an address written on a face mask. From the start, he found the situation unusual and remained alert. The girl stated she couldn’t find her brother and that her phone was dead. Officer Jones grew concerned. After further questioning, he learned she was only 13 years old and had no way to contact her parents.

Recognizing a potential danger, Officer Jones provided a safe location for her to charge her phone while ensuring she remained in a public setting. As she attempted to reach someone she referred to as her brother, inconsistencies in her story raised further red flags. Understanding the urgency, Officer Jones took the initiative to notify law enforcement.

Acting swiftly, Officer Jones escorted the minor to a nearby police officer, ensuring she was placed in safe hands. Shortly after, a 19-year-old male arrived, claiming to be her acquaintance. Law enforcement determined that the girl was a runaway and took appropriate steps to ensure her well-being.

Centennial Protection Group, Operations Manager Cory Austin praised Officer Jones for his professionalism and quick thinking:

"Officer Jones demonstrated exactly what Centennial Protection Group stands for—vigilance, professionalism, and a commitment to protecting the community. His instincts and immediate actions ensured the safety of a vulnerable young girl, and I couldn’t be prouder of him."

This incident underscores the critical role of well-trained security professionals in protecting the community. Officer James Jones’ instincts, quick response, and dedication helped prevent a potentially dangerous situation, reinforcing Centennial Protection Group’s unwavering commitment to security excellence.

For more information about Centennial Protection Group and its commitment to public safety, please contact:

Jennifer Worthington

Centennial Protection Group

Media Relations

media@centennialprotects.com

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