Denver Prepares For Possible Armed Protests Ahead Of Inauguration

DENVER, CO — Colorado law enforcement and government agencies are monitoring local protest planning efforts after the FBI warned of armed marches at every statehouse ahead of Inauguration Day.

Colorado State Patrol, which guards our Capitol, said it is ramping up security.

"We have been monitoring events on the national level and will continue to monitor for possible events in Colorado," the agency said in a statement.

"We support all those who plan to peaceably assemble in order to exercise their first amendment rights," the statement read, in part.

The FBI issued bulletins that warned of plans for armed protests at all 50 statehouses ahead of President-elect Joe Biden's Jan. 20 inauguration.

State capitols across the nation have deployed National Guard units, SWAT teams and additional police officers after last week's violence at the U.S. Capitol.

Colorado State Patrol has not released information about how it is guarding the Capitol due to security concerns, the agency said.

Don’t miss the latest news updates in Colorado. Sign up for free Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

The Denver Police Department said it's also monitoring plans for protests, and that it "respects the right to peacefully assemble."

"DPD continually monitors for protests/demonstrations and plans accordingly, while working with local, state and federal law enforcement partners," the department said in a statement.

"DPD encourages those who participate in protests, demonstrations, marches, or other gatherings, as protected by the First Amendment, to do so in a safe and lawful manner," the statement read, in part.

Like Colorado State Patrol, the Denver Police Department has also not disclosed its plan for security in an effort to keep its officers safe, officials said.

At least two Denver protests have been organized, police said.

The Colorado legislature convenes Wednesday, but under its regular schedule, it won't be in session during the protests.