No Threat In NJ, But Police Adding Troopers For Giants Game
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Law enforcement agencies in New Jersey will be on heightened alert Sunday after the deadly terror attacks in Paris, but officials reported no credible threats in the state.
New Jersey State Police said Saturday they will increase the number of troopers at the Giants-Patriots game in East Rutherford's MetLife Stadium in light of the Paris attacks. Kickoff is set for 4:25 p.m.
State police said they are learning more about the tactics in the deadly bomb and gun attacks and are using that information to improve their plans.
Law enforcement officers also reported being on heightened alert on Saturday.
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey police spokesman Joe Pentangelo said there were increased patrols and checks of bags, buses, trucks and trains at agency locations. The Port Authority oversees the airports, bridges and tunnels in the region.
New Jersey State Police spokesman Sgt. Jeff Flynn said the Regional Operations and Intelligence Center in West Trenton monitors world events every hour of every day and is keeping an eye on the current situation. The center is operating as usual, he said.
Flynn and Pentangelo said people should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to police or other authorities.
State Police superintendent Col. Rick Fuentes echoed that sentiment in a Facebook post, saying the best defense against an attack is intelligence- sharing at all levels combined with "the eyes and ears of concerned citizens."
He said people are understandably concerned about the possibility of an attack here.
"Let's use those concerns to strengthen our diligence in being aware of our surroundings and reporting suspicious activity," Fuentes said.
Gov. Chris Christie also said on Twitter that state police and the Homeland Security Department are taking steps to protect New Jersey.
At least 129 people were killed and 352 injured in gun and bomb attacks Friday night in Paris. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility.
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