Central Coast takes safety preparations ahead of inauguration day.
SALINAS, Calif. (KION)
In the days leading up to President-elect Joe Biden's Inauguration, Central Coast law enforcement is keeping a close eye out for any possible violent activity.
While local law enforcement agencies in Monterey and Santa Cruz County say they have not seen any signs of possible dangerous activity, they say they are taking precautions.
Chief Andrew Mills from the Santa Cruz Police Department says the department has been monitoring for potentially dangerous activity and will have additional staff present on inauguration day.
“We have been looking on social media, checking websites, listening to the Federal Bureau of Investigations and other intelligence agencies and we do not see any threats for our area of responsibility," says Chief Mills.
Chief Deputy John Thornburg with the Monterey County Sheriff's Department says they have been in contact with other law enforcement departments.
Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism Expert Jason Blazakis, who also monitors activity on the Central Coast, says although there does not appear to be an immediate threat in the Central Coast, he feels people should still remain vigilant.
Blazakis says some of his biggest concerns right now are for the safety of people attending any possible upcoming protests and safety at government and district buildings, which he says may be easier to access than others and do more harm to.
“The various district offices of members of Congress, Congressman Panetta has a couple, one in Salinas, one in Santa Cruz, I can assure you they’re not as well fortified as the Washington DC office and the Cannon House Office building," says Blazakis.
Blazakis says threats of violence can happen anywhere and should not be taken lightly.
“There are certainly individuals who are part of the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers and the 3 Percenters who very likely live in the Central Coast, if we see somebody who may be doing something that we perceive to be awkward or irregular, we all should report that behavior to local law enforcement," says Blazakis.
Blazakis says potential threats can still linger in the days following the inauguration.
