After the recent terrorist attack in New Orleans, San Diego authorities issued statements reaffirming their commitment to public safety and regional cooperation. Local leaders highlighted, through an official statement, their prevention and response strategies against potential threats, emphasizing inter-agency collaboration and community participation.
Coordination and Specialized Resources
San Diego County Sheriff Kelly A. Martinez expressed condolences to the victims and emphasized the essential role of community partnerships and law enforcement in ensuring safety. “We actively collaborate with local, state, federal, and tribal partners, monitoring intelligence and strengthening critical infrastructure in key locations,” she stated.
Among the measures implemented, the Sheriff’s Office employs specialized teams such as K-9 explosive detection units and the Bomb/Arson Unit, which work with agencies like the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE). Additionally, the Infrastructure Security Group conducts assessments to protect county facilities from potential attacks.
Active Role of the Prosecutor’s Office and Community
District Attorney Summer Stephan emphasized the importance of citizen cooperation in identifying potential threats. “Many threats have been neutralized thanks to timely reports from students, parents, or neighbors,” she noted.
In the statement, Stephan also highlighted programs such as the School Threat Protocol and the Hate Crimes Unit, designed to prevent acts of violence before they occur. Meanwhile, the San Diego Law Enforcement Coordination Center (SD-LECC) leads efforts to share intelligence and strengthen regional preparedness. According to the institution, more than 6,000 officers in the region are trained to respond to suspicious activities. “Our Critical Infrastructure Unit assesses vulnerabilities in the region, focusing on mass victim threats,” the SD-LECC reported.
Additionally, Roxana Kennedy, Chief of the Chula Vista Police Department and President of the County Chiefs and Sheriffs Association, emphasized the strength of local alliances, considering them essential for ensuring the safety of residents and visitors.
Call for Collective Vigilance
The FBI’s San Diego office reiterated its commitment to working with local agencies to prevent terrorist acts. “We have no information on local threats, but we continue to share intelligence to keep our communities safe,” the office stated, reminding the public to report suspicious activities at 1-800-CALL-FBI or on their website.
U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath emphasized that security is a shared responsibility.
“We rely on our communities to stay alert. If something seems out of place, speak up. Together, we can keep San Diego safe and strong.”