Philly Preparing For Inauguration Day Turmoil Despite No Threats

PHILADELPHIA — Local and federal authorities are preparing to respond to any criminal or violent activity in Philadelphia on inauguration day Jan. 20.

City and state leaders, as well as a representative from the FBI, details their plans to ensure a safe inauguration day in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner said the city, Philadelphia Police, the FBI, and his office among others are collaborating similar to election day in an effort to protect citizens and property in the event of any violent activity Jan. 20.

"We're getting the band back together," Krasner said of the intergovernmental effort.

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said police will be stationed throughout the city as locations such as landmarks and government buildings. She said despite increased police presence at those locations, the ability for police to respond to 911 calls will not be hindered.

While no credible threats have been made toward the city, Outlaw said the situation is fluid and police are prepared to respond.

FBI Philadelphia Field Office Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Driscoll said the FBI will have a "heightened posture" in the city through Jan. 20 for any development on threats.

Driscoll said anyone who has any information on potential threats to the city to share details by contacting the FBI at 1800-225-5324 or submit a tip online here. Driscoll also urged anyone who has information on violence that occurred at the Capitol to contact the FBI.

Additionally, Krasner said tips can be submitted via the District Attorney's Office hotline at 215-686-9641.

And while authorities said they are prepared to respond to crime and violence on inauguration day, they said First Amendment rights will not be infringed.

"We will not hinder First Amendment activity," Mayor Jim Kenney said.

City Council Majority Leader Cherelle Parker said the right to freely associate under the First Amendment is taken very seriously in the city. However, she said it does not give anyone the right to riot.

Kenney said the city is not recommending the closure or boarding up of businesses on Jan. 20.