USF Police Ready For Debate, Protesters

Mitt Romney took his time commiting to today’s debate.

But Lt. Chris Daniel, public information officer for the USF Police Department, said the late-hour decision has not added pressure for law enforcement because they began planning months ago for this high-profile event.

“We are confident with the resources we have that we have adequately planned for anything that can happen," he said this morning while briefing members of the media.

And that includes protesters, who are expected to turn out this evening. While there is no designed space on campus for protesters, Daniel said authorities will not tolerate objectors blocking public walkways and buildings, creating a hazard or otherwise disrupting the learning process. It is unclear how many protesters might show up — only that they will.

“The university is naturally a place for people to come and express their opinions so we’d be surprised not to have any,” Daniel said. “We ask that when they come out here, they conduct their free speech and express their voice in a responsible fashion.”

Daniel said the university, police and other agencies are collaborating for the event. He would not give specific numbers for how many law-enforcement officers are at the ready, but said “it takes a lot of resources.”

The Debate's Impact

The event has led to some temporary changes in operations at the university. Find out about:

• Which parking lots will be closed.
• Changes in operations at the Marshall Student Center.