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Law Enforcement On Heightened Alert For Election Day

Published on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 | 7:28 am
 
Pasadena police shown controlling an unlawful assembly in front of Pasadena City Hall in August, 2020. Via Twitter

Police across the Southland will be on heightened alert Tuesday as voting wraps up in a highly contentious presidential election that has led to fears of large scale protests and possible civil unrest — regardless of whether President Donald Trump wins or if Democrat Joe Biden unseats him.

Multiple reports that the announcement of the winner could be delayed and Trump’s threat of a court battle has ramped up anxiety across an already divided country.

“We are hopeful the elections are uneventful and everyone has a positive voting experience,” said Pasadena Police Chief John Perez. “We do understand the national concerns regarding protests and/or demonstrations and we are preparing, as appropriate, for anything that may occur.”

According to reports police have also ramped up patrols. 

Across the southland some business owners have also been making preparations, with some choosing to board up their windows or remove merchandise from shops and store fronts.

Although many local businesses were not boarded up on Monday, the police have been preparing and are used to dealing with large scale events according to Pasadena Public Information Officer Lisa Derderian.

“Our Police Department is in contact with federal, state, county and regional law enforcement representatives to stay up to date with any local concerns,” Derderian told Pasadena Now. “We have a robust communications plan in place should public notification alerts be necessary. Our city looks forward to locals participating in the voting process on Tuesday.”

John Votava, a spokesman for Kroger — owner of Ralphs and Food4Less stores — said managers at some of the company’s locations in the area were told they may need to take precautionary measures in case there are protests that escalate.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we have taken the necessary steps to prepare select stores and protect our associates in the event of civil unrest surrounding the election,” Votava told City News Service.

“The city absolutely has an action plan,” said Mayor Terry Tornek.  “We’ve been in a state of readiness almost for the last, you know, for the duration of the pandemic. And certainly since the social justice demonstrations, going back to May 25th with George Floyd.” 

Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michael Moore said earlier this week his department is prepared for any unrest that may occur.

Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore said earlier this month the agency will be fully prepared to respond to any unrest that occurs in connection with the election.

Moore said he doesn’t anticipate any major incidents in Los Angeles, as the city doesn’t have the same volume of armed militia groups as other cities. Moore said the LAPD will be fully staffed during the election period, with officers alternating shifts to ensure a full presence.

Heightened tensions have already been seen in some areas. Police in South Pasadena are investigating a fight that broke out between two groups of demonstrators in the wake of a rally in support of President Trump and police in South Pasadena on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

The incident unfolded about 6 p.m. at Fair Oaks Avenue and Mission Street, where hundreds of people gathered earlier in the day to show support for Trump, South Pasadena police officials said. The event had concluded by about 3 p.m.

Trump supporters blocked bridges and roads in New Jersey on Sunday according to footage on CNN. 

Across the southland departments in Beverly Hills, Torrance, Lakewood  released statements regarding their readiness. 

“As Election Day approaches and with the potential of increased demonstration and protect activity across the region, the city is taking a proactive approach to ensure a safe community for residents, businesses and visitors,” Beverly Hills Police Chief Dominick Rivetti said in a message to the community last week. “Beginning on Halloween and through election week, the Beverly Hills Police Department will be on full alert throughout the residential and business districts. Additionally, other law enforcement personnel and private security companies will offer support. Some businesses in the city may choose to limit operations during this time.

“… While we are hopeful for peaceful weeks ahead. your police department is prepared to protect our city,” he said.

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