Anti-Terrorism Operation Safeguard Begins Today for the Fourth of July Holiday Celebration

Special "holiday tasking" by local law enforcement agencies begins today, Thursday July 3 and will continue through early morning, Tuesday, July 8. During this period, Westchester County and Putnam County law enforcement officers will perform periodic security checks of Metro-North train stations, commuter parking lots, bus routes, shopping malls, public parks and sites where holiday events are planned.

"Operation Safeguard" is a collaborative police effort intended to collect, analyze and distribute information that may be terrorism-related. It has been conducted in New York State Counter Terrorism Zone 3 (CTZ-3) since 2004.  

The increased uniformed presence is not because of received threats.  

The public is asked to participate by:

1. Not confronting suspicious individuals directly
2. Not revealing suspicions to these individuals
3. Recording as many details if possible
4. Notifying police by calling 911 or by their direct phone numbers

The public is reminded "If you see something, say something." 

Westchester County CTZ-3 committee members include: 

• Chairman, Chief M. Cerone, Irvington police department
• Vice Chairman, Chief G. Austin, Rye Brook police department
• Vice Chairman, Chief W. Hayes, Bedford police department
• Vice Chairman Chief B. Gelardi, Dobbs Ferry police department

The phone number for the New York State Tipline is 1-888-SAFE-NYS or 1-866-723-3697.