Locals react to latest attacks

Police: there are no credible threats in Nassau

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As the world reacted to last week’s attacks in France and Lebanon, local officials responded with reassurance about the county’s safety measures, and others reflected on the implications of the latest wave of terrorism.

“Here in Nassau County we are responding with intensified patrols, especially at large, known gatherings,” said County Executive Ed Mangano. “In addition, we continue to participate in the Joint Terrorism Task Force that provides important intelligence to keep our county safe. That task force is in touch with many, many agencies, including the New York Police Department, and over the years has absolutely prevented acts of terrorism here in our country and certainly here within our borders, and they’ll continue to work closely together in that regard.”

Mangano suggested that the U.S. close its borders to Syrian refugees fleeing their country’s civil war and “redirect resources” to vet those who have already arrived. The issue quickly became a heated national debate after news broke of the attacks that killed at least 129 people in Paris last Friday, with many pundits and social media users arguing that refugee populations could contain terrorists, and others responding that the refugees are fleeing those terrorists.

Thomas Krumpter, Nassau County’s acting police commissioner, said that the NCPD is under heightened alert. He noted that officers undergo training throughout the year for active-shooter and worst-case scenarios.

“Let me emphasize that at the present time, there are no credible threats,” Krumpter said, “but it is important to prepare for the worst and pray for the best.”

He said that there have been added patrols at local malls, and that the Bureau of Special Operations and the Criminal Intelligence Rapid Response Team have been patrolling locations where the public gathers.

“If you look to my left and right, you will see the members of BSO and patrol,” he said. “Earlier this year, at the direction of the county executive, all of the patrol sector cars in this county were provided with heavy body armor, and that is just preparation. Again, it is all about preparation.”

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