MPD, DC leaders prepare for protest, ‘riots’ during and after the elections

WASHINGTON (7News) — At least twice this week, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and city leaders have raised the possibility of riots when discussing security during and in the days after Election Day.

MPD Chief Pamela Smith sent a stern warning during a news conference Tuesday morning.

“I want to be very clear: we will not tolerate violence of any kind. We will not tolerate riots. We will not tolerate the destruction of property. We will not tolerate any illegal behavior. Violators will be arrested and detained. responsible,” Smith said Tuesday.

A DC Council source confirmed to 7News that during a breakfast meeting on the same day of Smith’s press conference, a city official told council members they discussed several scenarios, including what the city saw in 2016 and 2020, and the January 6 riot , and that they are making comprehensive preparations for “large-scale riots and civil unrest.”

Chief Smith said MPD will be 100% staffed and will work with the U.S. Park Police and the U.S. Secret Service.

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“Next week we will be organizing a full activation, which means that all metropolitan members will be working twelve hours, and depending on what happens, maybe a little longer to ensure that we have enough offices on the street in every corner of our city. The MPD precinct will remain fully staffed to accommodate our residents and businesses and all that we may expect during this time,” Smith said.

Smith also said she has already received commitments from neighboring police departments for additional resources if needed.

People who live and work in the district told 7News they are relieved to hear there is a comprehensive safety plan in place.

“I really appreciate the planning everyone is doing for DC and the area,” said Virginia Rutter.

Joshua Smith added: “It’s necessary. It’s a big event. There’s polarization. People are arguing a lot, so you don’t want anything to happen. You need a police presence.”

Despite these preparations, according to Smith, there are currently no threats.

“I would like to emphasize that this is only a proactive measure and no alarm is necessary. While we have not identified any credible threats to our city, we will remain vigilant and ready and willing to address any issues or concerns that may arise throughout the region. our city,” Smith said.