Newark Police Up Security in Wake of Boston Marathon Bombing

Newark police announced additional security measures in response to the bombing of the Boston Marathon Monday, but added that the measures were strictly a precaution and not in response to a specific threat. 

“The Newark Police Department has not received any information that would indicate any issues of concern as it relates to the city of Newark,” Police Director Samuel DeMaio said in a statement. “However, in response to this incident we have assumed a proactive posture and taken some precautionary measures.”

Two bombs went off near the finish line of the annual race Monday afternoon, killing two and wounding scores more, CNN reported. The network also quoted federal officials who said the bombings were the work of terrorists.

In Newark, DeMaio said there will be a greater police presence downtown, at transportation hubs and overhead, with additional helicopter patrols by the department’s aviation unit.

“This activity may impact our downtown community as they move in and around the city,” DeMaio said.  “Everyone should remain calm and expect potential delays as a result of heightened security.”

“Lastly, we are urging the public please be alert of any suspicious activity or persons and report them right away to the authorities,” he added.

NJ Transit, whose police patrol Penn and Broad Street train stations, also went on heightened alert in repsonse to the bombings.