Chicago Police Officers Learn Valuable Lessons at Republican National Convention
Chicago police officers who assisted with the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee are gaining valuable insights that they can apply when the Democrats visit Chicago next month. Nearly 4,000 federal agents and local officials, including about 80 Chicago police officers, were on duty at the convention, manning checkpoints and conducting foot patrols.
Comparable Security Measures in Place at Both Conventions
Deputy Commissioner Duane DeVries noted the similarities between the security measures at the Republican National Convention and what Chicago typically implements. Both events featured concrete barriers, fencing, checkpoints, vehicle containment zones, and patrols by various law enforcement units. The experience in Milwaukee is serving as a learning opportunity for the Chicago officers.
Preparations for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago
The upcoming Democratic National Convention will be held at the United Center in Chicago, requiring a different approach to security due to the venue’s location on the city’s West Side. The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications is already planning to update their app to provide real-time information on street closures during the convention. Access to public transportation in the vicinity of the United Center will be restricted to facilitate the movement of key political figures.
Overall, the collaboration between law enforcement agencies from different cities at the Republican National Convention is not only ensuring the safety of attendees but also fostering a valuable exchange of knowledge and best practices. Chicago officers are gearing up to apply these lessons learned to provide a secure environment during the Democratic National Convention in the city next month.
