TAMPA (FOX 13) -
Business
owners and city leaders got a behind-the-scenes look Thursday at how the Tampa
Police Department plans to handle crowds during the Republican National
Convention.
The
department showed off the tools and technology at their disposal as they hope
for the best, while planning for worst-case scenarios.
Officers
demonstrated one of those scenarios, acting out steps they would take if a
protest got out of control.
The
department has several new tools, thanks to a $50 million security grant. There are several T-3 cycles,
a nearly
$300,000 SWAT vehicle, riot gear and 200 new mountain bikes. The officers on the bikes will also be
sporting a new RNC uniform" a light weight polo shirt and shorts.
"We're
really happy they went with the shorts.
It'll help keep us cool when we're riding. Bikes will predominately be used as scouts, so
we're going to be out in the heat for almost 12 hours a day," says Sgt. Mark
Delage.
Officers
are hoping all the new gear will help keep Tampa safe during the largest event in the
region's history.
"We have
prepared for the worst, but we feel through our planning, training, and
exercise that we will be able to see minimal disruptions and minimal arrests
during the RNC," Chief Castor said.
