Chicago Police Are Increasing Airport Security In Light Of Brussels Attack
By Mae Rice in News on Mar 22, 2016 8:01PM
The Chicago Police Department has ratcheted up security at local airports and transit hubs after Tuesday’s explosion at a Brussels airport, which killed 30 people.
“There is no current intelligence, threat or nexus to Chicago concerning the Brussels incident,” police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement. “However, we prepare and have deployments in place to safeguard critical infrastructure. Due to the incident in Brussels this morning, we have increased our security posture (uniform and non-uniform) at the airports, public transportation systems and other high profile locations.”
Though Gugliemi, like other elected officials, noted Chicago is unlikely to suffer a similar attack, he's the first Chicago official to mention increased security precautions. This morning, the Mayor and Governor took a purely reassuring stance on the Brussels attacks.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel expressed support for Brussels in a tweeted statement that specified there are “no known threats to the City of Chicago.”
Chicago stands with #Brussels 🇧🇪 pic.twitter.com/Vu7ZF4u6tn
— ChicagosMayor (@ChicagosMayor) March 22, 2016
Earlier this morning, Gov. Bruce Rauner tweeted a similar statement, sharing his condolences along with reassurance for Illinois residents:
Diana and I are heartbroken over the attacks this morning in Brussels. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.
— Bruce Rauner (@GovRauner) March 22, 2016
I want to assure the people of Illinois that we are in touch with all levels of law enforcement to keep our state safe and secure.
— Bruce Rauner (@GovRauner) March 22, 2016