FBI, Homeland Security on High Alert for Fourth of July Terrorist Attacks

By Todd Richissin

The FBI is on high alert and has joined the Department of Homeland Security to warn local law enforcement officials across the country about a heightened concern of terrorist attacks over the Fourth of July holiday.

Sound familiar?

Good reason: Law enforcement often issue warnings over holidays and major national events in an abundance of caution knowing that, from a terrorist’s point of view, the timing of an attack can determine how much coverage it gets.

For this holiday, though, there are additional concerns, including the recruiting ISIS has done in the United States and the potential for relatively small-scale, but still dangerous, “lone wolf” attacks.

Following overseas attacks in June, Department of Homeland Security Jeb Johnson said law enforcement was being encouraged to be “vigilant and prepared” for Independence Day celebrations.”

“We will also adjust security measures, seen and unseen, as necessary to protect the American people,’’ Johnson said. “We continue to encourage all Americans to attend public events and celebrate this country during this summer season, but always remain vigilant.’’

Should you be worried?

Worried? No. Cautious? Yes.

Connecticut State Police Sgt. Shane Hassett said “If we get a specific credible threat then we would take specific actions to investigate and mitigate that threat, but short of that we remain vigilant each day and on alert especially during large gatherings over this holiday period.”

The most recent FBI alert is one of those “general concerns,” but that doesn’t mean that law enforcement in your city or town isn’t taking extra precautions.

As a result, a community event like a parade will have a strong police presence. But the tools police use these days might be invisible to the general public.

You might see police conducting K-9 sweeps to check garbage bins and parade viewing stands. There will be undercover officers in the crowd, in the parade, and others in places you might never think of looking.

Of course, if you see someone or something suspicious, no matter how small or minor, report it.

“A lot of times, these plots are uncovered through good police working with citizens who report suspicious activity,” Winquist said. “I know a lot of other chiefs are doing the same — monitoring the events they have and employing all the security tools at their disposal.”

To report suspicious activity locally to the Bethel Police Department, call 9-1-1 or (203) 743-5500.

Photo: Flickr Creative Commons