Teamwork in library security
Edmonton Public Libraries are open to all members of the community, as long as they follow the rules of the space. Security guards work closely with the library staff and the Edmonton Police Service to enforce the rules, and ensure the libraries are crime-free and safe for everyone.
In March 2024, while performing a regular washroom check, Security Guard Denis Bakir noticed that a patron was smoking in one of the stalls, and informed him that smoking in the library was prohibited and he’d need to leave the premises. The man was not compliant and refused to leave.
When Security Guard Abdullahi Mahamed arrived to assist, they opened the stall and found the man sitting there, still refusing to leave. The man then became aggressive and threatened to physically assault the guards, whereupon they called for backup.
When the man lunged at Security Guard Bakir, the guards decided to arrest him. The man pulled out a knife and began to swing it around. Security Guard Hailey Ross arrived on-scene and was able to grab the man’s wrists to restrain him, though he still had possession of the knife, and all three guards were injured in the process.
Security Guard Jaspreet Kaur arrived and performed crowd control, clearing the washroom of other patrons, while Security Guard Nicholas Armsworthy joined the team and was able to disarm the man. Security Guard Ross contacted 911.
Within minutes, Edmonton Police officers arrived and took over the scene. One of the security officers was taken to hospital by ambulance to treat their injuries.
Thank you to the team at Stanley Milner Library, for your bravery and teamwork – and your dedication to the safety of patrons and the entire community!
Canadian Security Lifesaver Association®