WASHINGTON — In the wake of this week’s deadly terror attacks in Brussels, security officials in D.C. are bolstering their efforts as huge crowds flock to the nation’s capital during a particularly busy time of year.
“We maintain probably a higher state of alertness, at least in a security sense, than most cities,” says Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy Lanier. “When things happen in other places, we do ramp that up.”
Lanier says the city took action to beef up security, both visible and otherwise, immediately following the Brussels attacks.
“We’ll continue to evaluate that and shift it around over the next days or weeks, depending on what it is we feel is necessary,” she says.
The security changes, which Lanier describes as “a combination of technology and deployments of officers and equipment,” are happening during a time of year when the District sees an influx of people.
Throngs of tourists are in D.C. for the cherry blossoms and major sporting events. The Wizards play at Verizon Center Friday night. On Saturday, the Capitals and D.C. United are both playing at home.
