NYPD Increasing Security During Fourth Of July Weekend
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The NYPD isn't taking any chances as there will be heightened security during this Fourth of July holiday weekend.
CBS2's Hazel Sanchez reported the NYPD said there will be increased security at this year's fireworks shows, especially along the East River– both uniformed and plainclothed -- and counter-terrorism efforts seen and unseen.
"We will have more officers this year than last year. Some of that is in response to the fact that now we have more officers in the department who are focused on terrorism," NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton said Wednesday.
Some New Yorkers said they will be enjoying the holiday weekend at home following the recent terror attack in Istanbul, Turkey, that killed dozens.
"Anywhere where people are enjoying themselves, relaxing like what happened in Paris, things in Turkey, things that have been happening here in Orlando, it's almost like that's where you're targeted now," Cynthia Cruz of Windsor Terrace said.
Counter-terrorism expert Manny Gomez said the city is dealing with immense challenges with a fireworks audience extending into neighborhoods far beyond the designated and secured viewing areas along the East River's edge. Gomez explained that's where the public must do its part.
"We need to be a force multiplier for law enforcement. That term "if you see something, say something," it really means something and we need to act on it," Gomez said.
On Monday, the East River Promenade will be filled with hundreds of thousands of people who will all have to go through security to attend the fireworks event.
The NYPD will announce their full-scale security plans for the Fourth of July on Friday.
