Peter McCormack Launches Private Security Initiative Amid Bedford Crime Concerns

Prominent Bitcoin podcaster Peter McCormack is saying he is ready to take justice into his own hands by introducing his very own private-funded security guards to maintain order in his hometown.

In his X post, McCormack cited his dissatisfaction with the performance of the local police, arguing that his initiative will provide the much-needed protection and restore confidence among residents and business owners.

McCormack cited the rising crimes rates in the town, such as the aggressive panhandling, shoplifting and harassment, which he claims have resulted in businesses closing and families feeling increasingly unsafe.

McCormack added that the announcement came after he issued a warning to local police force, saying

"As I promised, if the police won't keep the town safe for our women and children, I will."

Despite the grand plan, the exact way of how the private security guards would operate and the extent of their authority remains unclear.

UK law prohibits vigilantism, meaning these guards may have limited authority and would likely serve in a supportive or observational capacity, providing information and video evidence to police rather than intervening directly in criminal incidents.

This approach is consistent with the trend of “traffic vigilantes” and other citizen-led safety efforts becoming more prevalent nationwide.

Private Security Is Getting Common

Although the concept of a private citizen funding town security may seem unusual, experts note that such arrangements are becoming increasingly common in cities facing police staffing shortages and rising public safety concerns.

Lieutenant Eric J. Altorfer of the San Francisco Police Department recently observed that private security firms are playing an expanding role in community safety, especially where public resources are stretched thin.

He stressed, however, that these partnerships only succeed if there is clear accountability and cooperation between private firms and law enforcement.

McCormack is a prominent figure in the Bedford community, which hosts approximately 185,800 residents. The town is located two hours from London, according to Total Population data.

McCormack owns several businesses in the town in addition to the local soccer team, Real Bedford FC.

The soccer team is backed by investment from Gemini co-founders Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, giving the club the nickname "Bitcoin soccer team."

Peter McCormack’s private security pilot is poised to test the boundaries of public-private collaboration in community safety when local police resources are under pressure.

The effectiveness of the initiative, and how authorities respond to these evolving models of neighborhood protection, will be closely watched by both residents and observers in the wider digital asset and civic innovation communities.