Introduction to Lone Wolf Attacks
New York is on high alert ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday, as law enforcement agents work to guard the Big Apple from any potential lone wolf attacks.
New York is on high alert ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday, as law enforcement agents work to guard the Big Apple from any potential lone wolf attacks.
REUTERS/Andrew Kelly
Current Threat Level
Speaking from police headquarters on Wednesday afternoon, Commissioner Tisch underscored that although law enforcement is on high alert, there is currently no specific or credible threat.
The warnings from Tisch and Hochul, however, came weeks after the FBI and Department of Homeland Security issued a warning regarding the potential for lone wolf attacks — assaults committed by singular actors, such as the New Orleans truck assault on New Year’s Day and the firebombing of a Boulder, CO march in support of Israeli hostages last month.
Law Enforcement Preparations
“The NYPD and our federal partners are closely monitoring the threat from lone wolf actors who are motivated by world events. But I want to emphasize: there are no known specific or credible threats to this year’s celebration. Our intelligence division, joint terrorism task force partners, and counterterrorism teams continue to monitor every possible lead, both domestic and international, in real time,” Tisch said.
Commissioner Jessica Tisch.Photo by Dean Moses
Out of an abundance of caution, Tisch revealed that defenses will be deployed across land, sea, and air, and will even include a flight restriction over a mile throughout the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza. This beefed-up security will also include thousands of additional officers at the big pyrotechnic display.
State-Level Preparations
Meanwhile, Hochul also stated that she has had constant briefings over the last several weeks regarding the potential of lone wolf attacks. She is also ordering a height in the police presence.
“New York’s law enforcement personnel have already been in an increased alert posture following the recent conflict in the Middle East, but at my direction, State Police will have an increased presence at large events throughout the state, and we will be closely coordinating with local and federal law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of all involved,” Hochul said. “National Guard personnel also remain deployed at major transportation hubs, as well as at key bridges and tunnels within New York City. We are also actively monitoring social media activity and continue to be on high alert for any cyberthreats.”
Public Vigilance
Hochul also told the public to stay vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there are no specific or credible threats to the Fourth of July celebrations in New York, law enforcement agencies are taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety. The increased police presence and monitoring of potential threats will help to prevent any lone wolf attacks.
FAQs
Q: What is the current threat level for the Fourth of July celebrations in New York?
A: There are no specific or credible threats, but law enforcement is on high alert.
Q: What measures are being taken to ensure public safety?
A: Defenses will be deployed across land, sea, and air, including a flight restriction and thousands of additional officers at the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza.
Q: What is the role of the public in ensuring safety?
A: The public is urged to stay vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity.
Q: Are there any specific events or areas that will have increased security?
A: Yes, large events throughout the state will have an increased police presence, and National Guard personnel will be deployed at major transportation hubs, key bridges, and tunnels within New York City.
