Law enforcement and security agencies in and around Washington are bringing in reinforcements as they seek to secure three high-profile incidents in the nation’s capital following the New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans and the Cybertruck bombing in front of the Trump International Hotel. Are preparing for. Las Vegas.
The first event will take place on Monday, when Congress meets to certify the results of the presidential election on January 6, 2021, four years after the Capitol riot.
The second will be the state funeral of the late President Jimmy Carter, which will begin with a ceremony and procession on Tuesday and end on Thursday.
The last high-profile event will be on January 20, when President-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated.
“This has never happened before. We have three [National Special Security Events] Over a period of 15 days,” Matt McCollum, special agent in charge of the US Secret Service Washington Field Office, told reporters on Friday.
He added, “But I will tell you that we are flexible. We are adaptable. We have been working on these incidents, in some cases, for years.” “So, we’ll be ready.”
Despite concerns stemming from the New Orleans attack and the Las Vegas bombing, security officials remain confident that the Washington events will go ahead safely.
“We are not tracking any credible or specific threats associated with these incidents,” said David Sundberg, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office.
However, law enforcement and security agencies are not taking any risks, acknowledging that cities and regions are operating in an environment of heightened threat.
The Secret Service said Friday it was bringing in agents from across the country to boost staffing levels, which are already the highest in three years.
Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department said it has added nearly 4,000 officers to its ranks from departments across the country.
The capital’s National Guard Bureau confirmed it had also approved requests for additional assistance, including the provision of 500 Guardsmen for the January 6 election certification and liaison officers for state funerals.
An additional request for 7,800 National Guard soldiers and airmen is pending to assist with security for Trump’s inauguration.
There are already increased security measures, including barriers and fencing, in parts of Washington and around the Capitol, but more measures are being taken.
“Many seen and unseen security measures will work together to ensure a comprehensive and seamless security plan,” McCullum said. He said these measures would also include the use of aerial drones.
“The Secret Service will use drones as part of our comprehensive security plan,” McCollum said. “Don’t be alarmed if you see these properties during upcoming events or training in the coming days.”
The Metropolitan Police Department said its enhanced security measures would take effect from Sunday, with special officers deployed around the city to deal with any emergencies.
The US Capitol Police, whose 2,400 officers and civilian employees are responsible for protecting the Capitol and members of Congress, also said they were more prepared to handle contingencies than four years ago, when the results of the 2020 presidential election were announced. The rioters, upset with this, had attacked. Capitol, forcing lawmakers to flee and injuring police officers.
About 1,560 people have been charged with federal crimes in the riot. About 979 people have so far pleaded guilty, while another 210 have been convicted.
Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger said, “Our nation’s capital stands ready to ensure that the legislative process will proceed without disruption and that our government will have a peaceful transfer of power.” He said the force has implemented more than 100 of the following recommendations. Riots of 2021.
Officials in Washington are also bracing for potential protests, saying many of the planned demonstrations have already received the necessary permits.
Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith said, “We are committed to maintaining the right to peacefully assemble and protest in our city.”
“We welcome visitors to come and experience what this incredible city has to offer, but those who are knowingly conducting illegal activity should know that there will be consequences,” Smith said. “However, as I have said before, when we have special events, and I want to be very clear, we do not allow any violence, rioting, destruction of property, or anyone who threatens the safety and security of our city. Will not tolerate this behavior either.
