Security preparations underway ahead of Inauguration Day
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) -- President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration is just one week away, and law enforcement agencies are putting security plans in action to prepare for the event.
All over Washington D.C., there are indications of increased security. On Monday, Mayor Muriel Bowser discussed how the city is coordinating with federal law enforcement to ensure the city is ready for inauguration.
"Every four years, our city supports the peaceful transition of power. We are proud of that responsibility," Bowser said.
The Secret Service is taking the lead on security for the inauguration. Special Agent Matt McCool says this year poses larger challenges.
"What's different is we are in a higher threat environment," McCool said.
He says they've responded with a more robust security plan. That includes setting up several security screening checkpoints, 30 miles of fencing, and concrete barriers. Plus, they will have surveillance drones and thousands of officers from various law enforcement teams on patrol.
"This All-Star team is working to keep everyone safe while minimizing disruptions to the public as much as possible," McCool said.
The Secret Service is expecting hundreds of thousands of people in the nation's capital on Inauguration Day. Some will be attending the events in celebration, others will be protesting.
Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger says the fencing surrounding the Capitol is intended to help keep things under control.
"We're hopeful that that'll keep any of the protests from getting too close to the Capitol," Manger said.
The FBI says so far, they have not identified any credible threats to the inauguration, but law enforcement is keeping a close watch on the situation.
"The biggest threat I think, for all of us remains the lone actor," Manger said.
Chief Manger noted that just last week at services honoring late President Jimmy Carter, police stopped two different threats from lone actors.
Law enforcement leaders say they're feeling ready for the upcoming inauguration.
"We are 100% confident in the plan that we have put in place for this inauguration that the public and our protectees will be safe," McCool said.