Erie County addresses increased risk to public figures via training
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 26, 2021
CONTACT:
Jon McEnroe
jmcenroe@eriecountypa.gov
Erie County addresses increased risk
to public figures via training
Erie, PA – Erie County is taking a proactive step to ensure that they have the capabilities to address an increase in threats and unrest associated with prominent figures and elected officials. The Threat Assessment: Dignitary and Executive Protection training is a week-long program, which started Monday, October 25.
There is a trend across the country, surrounding controversial issues, that has resulted in community leaders being subjected to unwanted, threatening and, in some cases, unsafe situations. In many cases, individuals and/or groups on both sides of an issue, publicly express their displeasure with elected officials, appointed directors and even individuals serving in positions of responsibility in private organizations. In some of these instances, individuals or groups may cross the line resulting in actual threats, criminal activity or creating an unsafe situation.
Erie County has selected several individuals from various disciplines to learn how to efficiently and effectively identify and assess threats, implement risk mitigation procedures and, in the most extreme cases, provide protection for those who have been legitimately threatened.
“This training will provide individuals with skills they need to recognize and react to threats,” said Erie County Safety and Training Coordinator, Jon McEnroe. “As threats to public figures have increased it is prudent to be proactive and prepared. Looking at scenarios across the country, we want to ensure that here in Erie County, we are prepared for any scenario that might strike at any time.”
The individuals in the class are being trained by experienced individuals who have worked for prominent threat assessment and protection organizations within the United States and abroad.
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