‘Lone actors’ greatest safety threat during inauguration, says US Capitol Police
As the upcoming presidential inauguration events draw near, U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger has highlighted the threat posed by “lone actors” as the greatest concern for safety. Manger referenced two incidents on Capitol Hill last week where individuals attempted to disrupt congressional proceedings using potentially violent tactics. These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for heightened security measures during the upcoming events.
With an estimated 250,000 ticketed guests expected to attend the formal inauguration on Jan. 20, law enforcement officials are preparing for a significant presence in and around the Capitol. An additional 25,000 individuals are anticipated to participate in various demonstrations on Inauguration Day, making it a high-risk event that has been designated a “National Special Security Event.”
Manger emphasized the threat posed by lone actors, citing recent incidents where individuals attempted to bring weapons onto Capitol grounds or disrupt proceedings by setting a car on fire. While Capitol Police were able to intercept these individuals before any harm was done, the potential danger remains a primary concern for law enforcement.
During a press conference with federal and local law enforcement officials, including the FBI and the Secret Service, preparations for the inauguration were discussed. The FBI’s assistant director in charge of the agency’s Washington field office, David Sundberg, stated that there are currently no specific or credible threats to the inaugural ceremony or the Capitol complex.
Security measures for the inauguration will mirror those implemented during recent high-profile events, such as the presidential election certification and the late President Jimmy Carter’s funeral. Approximately 4,000 local law enforcement officers and 7,800 National Guard soldiers will be deployed to ensure the safety of attendees. In total, around 25,000 law enforcement officers will be on duty during the events.
Additional security measures include concrete barriers and over 30 miles of anti-scale fencing, making this inauguration the most heavily fortified National Special Security Event to date. Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela A. Smith emphasized that while peaceful protests are permitted, violence and unlawful behavior will not be tolerated.
As preparations for the inauguration continue, law enforcement officials are confident in the security plan that has been put in place. With lessons learned from past events, including a more robust security plan and a comprehensive approach to ensuring public safety, authorities are dedicated to protecting both attendees and dignitaries during this historic event.
