Naples Winter Wine Festival sees rise in private security for attendee safety

The Naples Winter Wine Festival is a significant event supporting the children of Collier County. Attendees at the festival often bring private security to ensure their safety.

Walt Clements, a retired FBI agent and protective security expert, offered insights into the role of these security professionals.

“Most of the ones that I have dealt with have been folks that are just average size,” said Clements.

He emphasized the importance of attention to detail for protective service agents, who are often mistaken for bodyguards.

“We call them protective service agents,” said Clements.

The primary objective of these agents is to protect their principal, the person they are hired to guard.

“The one principle is to get that person out of harm’s way as quickly as possible,” said Clements.

Threats can vary, from attacks or kidnapping to potentially embarrassing situations.

“It could be a case of embarrassment, things like a pie in the face or asking questions that would embarrass the company or put the CEO or principal in a bad position,” said Clements.

Protective service agents must act swiftly and are typically unarmed, lacking law enforcement powers. The principal also plays a role in their own safety.

“The CEO or the principal can never let the team take full responsibility for their protection. They should be aware of situational awareness,” said Clements.

Clements shared what he would focus on if he were on duty today.

“I would be worried about someone that doesn’t fit or something that doesn’t fit... Any behavior that doesn’t fit what the norm should be is what I’m going to be looking for,” said Clements.

While the festival-goers enjoy the event and raise money for a good cause, protective service agents will remain vigilant, ensuring the safety of their principals.