“I am a visual representation of the residence rules”, laughs René Papon. At 60 years old, this building guard who has been working for 26 years at the Fromentin residence in Vannes, is the first sworn private guard in Morbihan.
Still little known outside the Paris region, this status dates from 2006. It allows, among other things, a building caretaker to become an agent in charge of a judicial police mission. And thus, to draw up reports within the scope for which he is responsible. For René Papon, it concerns six blocks of 160 housing units ranging from studios to T5, or nearly 480 inhabitants. The guard took the oath before the Vannes judicial court after having previously obtained the signature of the prefecture.
Residents know that, like a police officer, their guard can now take action in the event of incivility, damage, malicious acts, etc. “I am in a rather quiet residence”, tempers the person concerned, going around the stairwells, keeping a watchful eye on the operation of the elevators. However, it was he who suggested, to the union council, that we obtain this status. “Two years ago, I almost got stabbed by the presence of squatters in the residence. »
“When we see elsewhere…”
In the event of a problem, he knows that he benefits from legal protection, “that aggressive people could have to answer for attacks on a person holding public authority.” And then, René Papon is convinced, “If I have to call the police, I will have more credibility in their eyes. » Arguments that he does not fail to put forward to his fellow goalkeepers. “The repressive side scares them. They fear problems. »
René Papon, who describes himself as “someone who favors dialogue”, is not the type to use repression. “Unless I have to.” I have in mind one or two people who, unfortunately, could force me to do so. » Then, the prosecutor will judge whether there is grounds for prosecution. “I have to send him the report within five days. »
This special sworn guard status is valid for a period of five years. And it seems to reassure residents. “The residence must continue to be pleasant. When we see how things are deteriorating elsewhere… notes an elderly lady. He is a attentive, human guardian. This new status allows him to manage people who don't respect anything. »
