MGM Springfield Security Team Intends To Put Safety First

The October attack in Las Vegas, which resulted in the tragic death of 58 concert-goers and numerous injuries, has brought casino security into the forefront, highlighting their seriousness towards security measures.

The shooter meticulously gathered an arsenal of weapons over the course of several days before initiating his attack. Taking position in a hotel suite at Mandalay Bay, his sights were set on an open-air concert taking place along the vibrant Las Vegas Strip.

After the tragic event, casino security is facing intense scrutiny. The focus has shifted beyond the usual crimes such as cheating and petty theft. Casinos are now thoroughly evaluating their existing security measures and implementing necessary modifications to prevent any future incidents.

Casinos are emphasizing the security measures they have implemented due to the prevailing public sentiment surrounding safety. The aim is to alleviate any concerns the public may have by showcasing these efforts.

Their goal is not just to ensure the safety of their patrons, but also to cultivate the perception of the casino as a secure and protected space.

Security will be tight at MGM Springfield

Recently, MGM Springfield has been publicizing its security department, as expected, considering its scheduled opening in September.

According to MassLive.com, Jason Rucker, the executive director of security at MGM Springfield, assured that the facility will provide a secure environment. Additionally, he mentioned that there will be ample parking, well-lit areas, and overall, it will be an enjoyable place to spend time.

Michael Mathis, the President of MGM Springfield, provided further details:

Ensuring safety and security are of utmost importance at MGM Springfield. I have full confidence in Jason’s ability to assemble and guide a dedicated team of experts, whose primary objective is to establish and uphold a safe and secure atmosphere for our guests, employees, and community. Jason is already actively engaged in his role, diligently forming his team and fostering connections within the local law enforcement community.

Rucker, a seasoned professional with 14 years of experience in security departments across multiple MGM properties, has been appointed to lead a team of 200 in the security department of the upcoming Massachusetts casino. Additionally, Rucker’s responsibilities will extend to overseeing the nearby Mass Mutual Center, which is now under MGM’s management.

In order to achieve success, the security team will employ a mixture of:

• Security officers in both uniform and plain clothes
• K-9 patrols
• The most recent advancements in surveillance technology

These will all be utilized in conjunction with state and local law enforcement agencies.

Outside the casino’s walls

MGM is optimistic that its existence in Springfield can bring about a beneficial effect on the city’s crime rate.

Making the casino a secure and welcoming destination is the primary objective, but the security team is confident in their ability to enhance the safety of the neighboring communities as well.

According to Rucker, the current perception of downtown Springfield is that it is an unsafe place to visit, especially at night. However, he finds this perception unacceptable and believes it will drastically change once the casino opens.

Rucker claimed that it is the downtown area that is newer and safer.

Doing it is more difficult than simply talking about it.

Springfield, being one of the least-safe cities in Massachusetts, possesses the following characteristics:

• The rate of violent crime is three times higher than the average in the state.
• The property crime rate is twice as high as the state average.
• The robbery rate is three times higher than the national average.

Given MGM Springfield’s outdoor public spaces and efforts to connect the casino property to other attractions in the city of Springfield, ensuring security in both the casino premises and the surrounding neighborhoods becomes of utmost importance.

MGM has proposed the concept of establishing a trolley line to link the casino with various prominent Springfield landmarks, in addition to hosting events at the Mass Mutual Center.

As mentioned in a previous piece:

The existing plan aims to establish a trolley line that will link MGM Springfield with various Springfield attractions, including the Quadrangle, which consists of five museums, and the Basketball Hall of Fame. Additionally, the line could potentially be expanded to incorporate a stop at Forest Park, renowned for its highly acclaimed holiday light exhibits in the state.

For that to become a reality, ensuring the safety of the city is paramount.