Security Guard Arrested On Suspicion Of Selling Cocaine At LA Nightclub

COVINA (CBSLA.com) — A 22-year-old security guard was in custody Saturday on suspicion of selling cocaine while he worked at a nightclub in downtown Covina.

According to the Covina Police Department, undercover agents from the California Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control (ABC) purchased cocaine on at least three different occasions from Christopher Rodriguez, of Baldwin Park, while he worked at a nightclub located in the 200 block of North Citrus Avenue.

Police explained Rodriguez was employed with Executive Sentry Services (ESS) , which is contracted by R.E.D., to provide security and crowd control during live entertainment is hosted at the nightclub.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office filed three charges of sales of a controlled substance against Rodriguez after ABC agents submitted their criminal case. A warrant for his arrest was also issued.

On Thursday, ABC agents and detectives contacted Rodriguez, and subsequently arrested him at his work.

ABC agents said they may take administrative disciplinary action -- which can range from suspensions and fines, to the revocation of their ABC license -- against R.E.D.

City officials said they will review the permits that were issued to R.E.D. and ESS to determine if administrative actions will be filed against either business.

Rodriguez is being held on $150,000 at the Covina Police Department Jail.

He is expected to appear at the West Covina Superior Court on Monday.