NJ Homeland Security Chief: Security Beefed Up For Jets-Cowboys Game, Other 9/11 Events In Garden State
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (WCBS 880/AP) -- The threat of a possible terror attack on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 in New York City or Washington D.C. means beefed up patrols in other high-profile areas around the Tri-State.
On Friday, New Jersey Homeland Security chief Charlie McKenna told Gov. Chris Christie's cabinet that the Garden State could be an attractive alternative for terrorists unable to strike heavily patrolled landmarks in New York.
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"New Jersey, with its proximity to New York and the amount of critical infrastructure here, presents many targets to a would-be terrorist,'' he said. "New York is there, we are here. We are, I think, an appetizing alternative target to terrorists who may want to hit Times Square but Times Square is too busy, too many police, so they come to New Jersey where they can wreak some havoc.''
That's why in East Rutherford where the Jets season opener takes place Sunday night, police aren't taking any chances.
The Jets game against the Cowboys would make for an appetizing target, says McKenna. But, he says Met Life Stadium has post-9/11 security features.
"So we feel again pretty confident that the stadium is going to be protected," he said.
Still, McKenna says they're working with state police and stadium officials to have extra patrols on hand to make sure everything is safe.
Security has also been beefed up for Saturday's 9/11 ceremonies at Liberty State Park.
Christie urged New Jerseyans to be on their toes, but said they shouldn't change their plans because of the threat, which was deemed credible but unconfirmed.
McKenna told the Cabinet federal authorities are pursuing two people who may be entering the country to meet up with a third person already here.
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