“But of course in any situation, we try to plan and prepare as best we can”, Lt. Brian James, Greensboro deputy chief of police, told ABC News.
Advertisement
The huge police presence has been ordered amidst fears that the main event at the convention – the official coronation of Donald Trump as the party’s 2016 presidential nominee – could trigger large protests and possible acts of civil disobedience in the north OH metropolis.
The RNC runs from July 18-21, and is expected to bring as many as 75,000 visitors to the city, along with large-scale protests and demonstrations. The release stated that “despite rumors” to the contrary, Cleveland police are on track with preparedness goals and are continuing to sign agreements with outside agencies for assistance.
The city’s route starts on the western end of a long bridge crossing the Cuyahoga River valley into downtown Cleveland, passes at a distance by the convention site, Quicken Loans Arena.
Groups will be required to submit permit applications under the new guidelines.
“The city of Cleveland has been absolutely irresponsible for preparation of this convention”, Steve Loomis, president of the Cleveland Police Patrolmen’s Association, said Friday.
Ruben sided with the union, but stopped short of allowing officers to take days off during the convention.
The Democratic and Republican Party conventions are designated “National Special Security Events”, meaning that Cleveland and Philadelphia are both receiving $50 million in federal money help cover security costs.
Advertisement
Thousands of Republican leaders and members from across the country and hundreds of media from across the world are expected to attend the four-day convention in Cleveland. But Police Chief Calvin Williams has said the city must withhold certain information to stymie anyone seeking to disrupt the convention.
