Baltimore City, White House Increase Security In Wake Of Boston Blasts
WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- The Secret Service says it has expanded its security perimeter around the White House following the explosions at the Boston Marathon. And though there are no credible threats to Baltimore, city police have also increased security.
Kai Jackson has more on an increase in security along the entire East Coast, including here in Baltimore.
Cities across the country are beefing up security in the wake of the Boston explosions.
In Baltimore, Police Commissioner Anthony Batts held a news conference after the blasts to tell citizens what police are doing and what people could expect to see.
"There is an increased presence of uniformed officers in critical areas throughout the city," he said.
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City police say Baltimoreans can also expect to see an increased police presence around public transportation like Amtrak.
The city bus system and other transportation will also be under surveillance. Maryland State Police will also be on guard.
Tactical teams are out now and starting Tuesday, police will deploy special operations teams throughout the city. Citizens can expect to see heavily armed tactical officers patrolling the city. Things like infrastructure, government buildings and landmarks will all be under greater scrutiny.
"I think how we address any potentialities is to be diligent, to see if there's anything suspicious, call us," Batts said.
In Baltimore County, Police Chief Jim Johnson directed all commanders to begin checks on critical infrastructure sites. The checks are a precaution and officials say there is no information to indicate any threat to the Baltimore region.
In a statement, Dutch Ruppersberger said, "Two bombs exploded today in Boston during the Boston Marathon, killing several people and injuring many others. My heart goes out to the families of the victims of the bombings, and the entire Boston community. Our country mourns alongside them.
We are still learning more about the bombing. State, local and federal law enforcement officials are working together with the intelligence community to figure out who did this and why. We are receiving briefings as information comes in and will continue to receive updates from the appropriate agencies.
The federal government is mobilizing its resources and the Intelligence Community will assist wherever it can. We must hold whoever is behind this despicable act accountable for their actions."
If you see anything suspicious, call 1-800-492-8477.
