CHP Goes On Tactical Alert Ahead Of Inauguration Day

SACRAMENTO, CA – California Highway Patrol went on tactical alert Saturday to meet the threat of violence leading up to Inauguration Day.

Following FBI warnings of the potential for extremist attacks in all 50 states, federal and state agencies have taken extraordinary steps to protect against violence. In addition to the CHP, police departments across the state are on high alert. Gov. Gavin Newsom called up 10,000 National Guard Troops Thursday, and theU.S. Postal Service temporarily removed dozens of public mailboxes in the Bay Area and Southern California as a safety precaution.

CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray announced the statewide tactical alert, noting the CHP is prepared to protect the state Capitol and government buildings.

“For many months, the CHP has worked closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure the outcome of the election will be respected and that any protests which may occur are free from violence. The CHP maintains strong relationships with our security and intelligence partners around the country and is continually evaluating possible emerging threats to the state. As such, the CHP is prepared to respond to any potential threats which may arise statewide,” she said. “Due to the potential for civil unrest related to the 2021 Presidential Inauguration, I have placed uniformed CHP personnel on tactical alert for an indefinite period. This allows for the maximization of resources to protect public safety as well as state buildings and infrastructure.”

SEE ALSO:

• Extremist Threat Prompts Removal Of Southland Mailboxes
• Gov. Newsom Activates National Guard Ahead Of Inauguration

For security reasons, the CHP is not offering specifics on the tactical alert, preparedness plans or personnel deployment. The agency has jurisdiction over California’s highways, state buildings and the Capitol.

In Calling up the National Guard this week, Newsom put extremists on notice.

“We are treating this very seriously and deploying significant resources to protect public safety, critical infrastructure and First Amendment rights, but let me be clear, there will be no tolerance for violence,” he said.