James Smith, assistant director of New York’s FBI Subject Workplace, has warned that “there are threats on the market” forward of Occasions Sq.’s huge annual New Yr’s Eve celebration.
Smith confirmed that there will probably be a large legislation enforcement presence throughout the celebration, together with undercover officers, SWAT, bomb squads, and others in tactical gear.
“I’d say general that, sure, there are threats on the market, however we’re on the market to guard the group day in and time out,” Smith informed Fox News.
Smith continued, “That’s our mission – to guard the group of all threats.”
The FBI is working alongside dozens of native, state, and different federal legislation enforcement businesses to ensure everybody in attendance can ring within the new 12 months safely.
“We can have a footprint throughout the Time Sq. celebration to guard the group,” Smith mentioned. “We’ll have all the things from our SWAT ingredient to bomb groups on the market working with our companions.”
Smith urged folks to report any suspicious conduct, saying, “If you happen to see one thing, say one thing.”
“We can’t shield the group with out folks reporting if there’s a risk or if a possible crime is about to happen,” Smith mentioned.
Fox Information stories that there will even be a command publish with “dozens” of businesses monitoring potential threats.
“The command publish is a room full of varied companions, the place we’re all speaking with one another on what we’re seeing on the streets,” Smith mentioned.
“We perceive the place our persons are all through the occasion. We perceive the place there may very well be some sizzling spots. I’m certain there’s going to be some demonstrations, or suspicious packages.”
Regardless of the potential threats, Smith urged folks to belief legislation enforcement and have time.
“Have time. Don’t worry. We’re there to guard you,” mentioned Smith. “Solely factor I’m asking if you happen to see one thing, say one thing. Inform the police officer on the nook or report one thing if you happen to assume one thing is mistaken.”
