Secret Service and Chicago Police Increase Security Measures for Democratic Convention Amid Looming Protests

Ramping up Preparations

Democratic National Convention in August will see heightened security measures by the Secret Service and Chicago police ahead of anticipated protests. With an expected 50,000 visitors, including delegates and media, preparations are underway to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.

Training for Various Scenarios

Secret Service and Chicago police officers are undergoing extensive training for a multitude of scenarios, from handling violent protests to potential mass arrests. The focus ranges from First Amendment rights to de-escalation tactics, with officers also preparing for situations involving radicalized individuals and the possibility of demonstrations turning violent.

Domestic and Foreign Extremist Groups

If Federal and local authorities have been closely following the threat stream from both domestic and foreign extremist groups. A recent joint intelligence bulletin warns that groups, including al Qaeda and ISIS, continue to generate propaganda urging followers to conduct “lone wolf” attacks on US soil.

Lone Wolf Attacks and Protest Violence

Foreign extremist groups have been encouraging individuals to carry out lone wolf attacks, using basic methods such as gunfire in crowded places or vehicles in ramming attacks. With the looming protests at the Democratic convention, law enforcement officials are preparing for potential violence that might erupt during demonstrations.

De-escalation Tactics and First Amendment Rights

Some Chicago police officers have been undergoing training in de-escalation tactics to handle potential clashes with protesters during the Democratic National Convention. Alongside this, officers are also receiving constitutional and legal training on First Amendment protest rights and the procedures for mass arrests if necessary.

Command Center and Multi-Agency Coordination

Centered at the Chicago Police Department’s Crime Prevention and Information Center, the command center will serve as the hub for monitoring all convention-related events citywide, including protests. It will involve representatives from various agencies like the Secret Service, the Illinois State Police, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, ensuring a coordinated approach to security during the event.

Amendment: The inclusion of multiple agencies in the command center emphasizes the importance of multi-agency coordination in ensuring the safety and security of all attendees and handling any potential security threats effectively.

Training for Protest Scenarios

On Monday, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle addressed Chicago agents, preparing them for potential scenarios during the Democratic National Convention. Training ranges from handling peaceful protests to preparing for violent demonstrations and mass arrests.

Emphasis on Peaceful Protest and Law Enforcement

Protesters planning to attend the Democratic convention in Chicago are urged to express themselves peacefully and within the limits of the law. Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling emphasized the importance of following legal procedures and avoiding conflicts to maintain a safe environment for all attendees and participants.