Pye-Barker Fire & Safety has acquired CRIMPCO, a security alarm and monitoring company in Baltimore. The addition increases Pye-Barker’s capability to provide full-service fire and life safety in Maryland and the broader Mid-Atlantic region, according to an announcement. 

CRIMPCO was founded in 1968 by Bob Jolson, who realized his knack for selling businesses panic button systems. Jolson expanded to include security systems, access control, video surveillance, video monitoring and fire alarms for customers from Baltimore and Washington, D.C., to northern Virginia and southern Pennsylvania. 

From the beginning, CRIMPCO has been a family business, as Jolson started CRIMPCO with his father, Marv Jolson, and expanded with sons Todd and Ryan Jolson. In addition, partners John Cromwell and Chris Graham, who joined the company in 1982 and 1992 respectively, have been instrumental in the company’s growth and success. 

“When you are hired at CRIMPCO, you are a member of the family,” said Bob Jolson. “While weighing the options of the next step for our company, our team’s future was top-of-mind. I’m confident that joining Pye-Barker is the best choice for them, our family and our customers.” 

“Like Pye-Barker, CRIMPCO and the Jolsons recognize the two keys to success: team and customers,” said Pye-Barker CEO Bart Proctor. “Fostering a family-like, supportive company culture while upholding the highest standards of customer service has fueled CRIMPCO's success and made them a great addition to our family.”   

CRIMPCO’s employees will continue to serve customers in the region. 

The transaction was coordinated by Philip Gardner, president of B Safe, which merged with Pye-Barker Fire & Safety in 2022. Barry Epstein of Vertex Capital represented CRIMPCO in the transaction. 

Pye-Barker Fire & Safety provides complete fire protection and security systems nationwide. With more than 200 locations and 6,000 team members nationwide, the ranks No. 9 on the 2023 SDM 100.