As the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden approaches, the Juneau Police Department says it’s ready to deal with the possibility of violence at the Capitol.
“The Juneau Police Department and our law enforcement partners would like to address community concerns from last week’s violent activity at the U.S. Capitol and subsequent warnings states will see possible demonstrations at their respective capitols,” said JPD Lt. Krag Campbell in a news release. “The Juneau Police Department and our partners have not received any specific threats, and as the nation approaches the presidential inauguration on January 20, we will be maintaining a heightened posture to ensure the safety of our community.”
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The JPD emphasized its relations with other law enforcement partners, including the FBI and Alaska Department of Public Safety, in keeping Alaskans safe and preventing the sullying of the inauguration with violence.
“If you have information about potential violence or criminal acts in Juneau, please call the Juneau Police Department Dispatch Center at 907-586-0600,” Campbell said. “We would also like to remind our community to exercise caution and attempt to verify information through appropriate official channels before potentially spreading misinformation.”
The DPS also issued a statement affirming its commitment to safety from violent action against the community.
“We understand that there is concern for public safety; as such, the Department of Public Safety is in close communications with our law enforcement partner agencies and, if necessary, will take appropriate response actions to any potential credible threats. At this time, no credible threats have been found.
Legislative Affairs Director Jessica Geary said in a memo that there would be reinforced security in place on Jan. 20. The JPD also said the Capitol building would be added to the downtown patrol route.
Contact reporter Michael S. Lockett at (757) 621-1197 or mlockett@juneauempire.com.
