Prominent Bitcoiner and Real Bedford FC owner Peter McCormack says he will personally fund a private security initiative in his hometown of Bedford, citing the growing failure of local police to address rising crime rates
McCormack, a well-known cryptocurrency podcaster, said the move is a response to increased incidents of public disorder, including drug-related activity, aggressive begging, shoplifting, and harassment of particularly women and families.
“As I promised, if the police won’t keep the town safe for our women and children, I will.”
McCormack
McCormack plans to deploy a team of 10 private security guards to patrol the town center every Saturday.
He claims the initiative is a last resort after attempting to work with local law enforcement and a project funded out of his own pocket.
McCormack added that he has surveyed Bedford residents about the crime problem and has invited the local community to attend a meeting to help rally further support.
He received supportive comments on X, especially from those who encountered violence.
Legal and Operational Uncertainty
McCormack’s proposal has drawn public attention and comparisons to a real-life “Batman” figure. However, legal experts caution that such initiatives can walk a fine line in the UK.
According to JD Spicer Zeb Solicitors, any action perceived as vigilantism could run afoul of UK law.
Details on the private guards’ powers remain unclear. Without official sanction, they are unlikely to have the authority to detain individuals or enforce laws.
However, experts suggest the guards may act as “eyes and ears” for police much like citizen-led traffic enforcement efforts increasingly seen across the country.
Community Support and Crime Concerns
Bedford has a population of approximately 185,800.
McCormack, who owns several local businesses and the semi-professional football club Real Bedford FC dubbed the “Bitcoin soccer team” said he has surveyed residents about crime concerns and plans to host a community meeting to rally further support.
While McCormack’s plan is unusual in the UK context, the concept of privately funded public safety is gaining traction internationally.
In the United States, police departments have increasingly turned to private security to offset staffing shortages.
However, such efforts are most effective when there is formal coordination between security firms and public law enforcement.
