DirectTV, El Segundo, Calif. is the latest cable services provider to enter the security space with its acquisition of LifeShield, Langhorne, Pa. According to DirecTV, LifeShield will continue to run with its existing team, which includes CEO Michael Hagan, in its Pa. headquarters. Robert Mercer, spokesperson for DirecTV, told SDM, "We've been looking at a number of firms but it was important for us not to rush into the home security business unless the right opportunity came along, as it did with Lifeshield. The video home security buss is a good strategic bid for us. It's a profitable business with low market penetration. The important thing for us is that we have the ability to leverage our strong, nationally recognized brand and our national footprint and our sales and marketing expertise that will enable us to take full advantage of the opportunity. "Lifeshield was the most attractive security firm for us for several reasons," Mercer continued.