As concern looms over potential outbreaks of violence leading up to the presidential inauguration next week, local authorities have issued messages reassuring the public that safeguarding the community was their top focus. The violence at the Capitol on Jan. 6 and the security lapses that enabled it have sparked country-wide concern over the possibility of more violent outbreaks around President-Elect Joe Biden’s inauguration on Jan. 20.
“As Inauguration Day approaches and with the potential of increased protest activity across the country, the city is working to ensure your safety. The Beverly Hills Police Department remains in regular contact with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners as we share the latest information,” the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) wrote in a statement. “The Department will be on full alert throughout the residential and business districts leading up to and on Inauguration Day with full staffing and additional support. While we are hopeful for a peaceful week ahead and respect the right of all to exercise their first amendment rights, violence of any kind will not be tolerated.”
With a scaled down national drama playing out in the city’s backyard, city officials have already implemented increased safety protocols, including contracting with two private armed security companies. “We have no indication, as of today, of any protest or threats of violence in Beverly Hills,” Lt. Max Subin told the Courier.
Beverly Hills Police Chief Dominick Rivetti posted a video message this week saying the agency would be on high alert.
“As inauguration day approaches and with the potential of increased protest activity across the country, the city is working to ensure your safety,” Rivetti said. “The Beverly Hills Police Department remains in regular contact with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners as we share the latest information. While we are hopeful for a peaceful week ahead, the department will be prepared and on full alert in our residential and business districts leading up to and on inauguration day.”
