With the holiday weekend almost here, folks in Putnam and Westchester Counties should expect to see more "high visibility patrols and inspections of public places," according to police.
Between Friday (May 24) and Tuesday (May 28), law enforcement agencies—including the Bedford Police Department—throughout the area will increase their presence.
The effort is part of the "Operation Safeguard" campaign, which has been in existence since 2004. The goal is to educate, promote and remind citizens that "the threat of terrorism is ongoing and that individuals and businesses can unknowingly be exploited by individuals who want to harm our citizens and our country," according to Counter Terrorism Zone 3. It's made up of law enforcement agencies in Putnam and Westchester. They collaborate and coordinate when it comes to initiatives aimed at preventing terrorism.
This weekend, police officers will be conducting security checks at a host of locations: bus routes, commuter parking lots, shopping malls, public parks where holiday events may be held and train stations.
"This increased uniformed presence is not because there is a renewed threat to your safety," officials said in a press release. "It is simply part of our counter-terrorism strategy of continued vigilance. With each day we learn of new tools and tactics that individuals who intend to impair our way of life may use to advance their plans. As you celebrate the holidays, be mindful of behavior that does not match the usual pattern of activity found within our daily lives."
Authorities called terrorism "a factor in our daily lives today," and point to the Boston Marathon as proof that attacks can happen in many different venues.
"During the upcoming Memorial Day observance period, we need to remember the recent events that occurred during the Boston Marathon, unfortunately a sad reminder that we still need to remain vigilant and diligent in our duties, never forgetting that terrorism, foreign and domestic, is a part of today’s world," authorities said.
In accordance with "If you see something, say something," police provided these tips for anyone who may observe suspicious activity:
- Do not confront the individual
- Do not reveal your suspicion to the individual
- Notify law enforcement by calling a local agency directly, dialing 911 or contacting SAFE NYS at 1-866-723-3697
- Record as many details as possible
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