Central Texas law enforcement said they are monitoring reports of potential terror threats against the state.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and New York Police Department are assessing the credibility of the information received of a possible Al-Qaeda terror attack against the U.S. next Monday, which is the day before the presidential election. The three potential targeted states are New York, Virginia and Texas.
The McLennan County Sheriff’s Office is on a high state of alert after learning about these reports. It plans to have additional deputies patrolling polling locations in Waco and the county.
The bomb squad and SWAT teams are on standby in case they’re needed.
"Right now, there is no specific threat to our area but we don't take these threats lightly. We take them very seriously. We are just going to do everything we can to keep everyone safe this weekend, and this weekend also, and the week after that,” McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara said.
He added that his agency has not heard about new threats but it is not taking any chances.
He advises residents to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity by calling 911. However, he said the threats should not discourage anyone from voting.
Waco Police Spokesman Sgt. Patrick Swanton said he would not discuss the specifics of another agency’s intelligence report.
“We would always remind our citizens to stay vigilant, assist us in being extra eyes and ears to potential threats and if they see something, say something. We would of course let our citizens know if we learn of any specific threats against our community, its citizens or businesses,” Swanton said in a statement.
Gov. Greg Abbott stated on Friday he will continue to work with law enforcement to continue to monitor the situation in coordination with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
"Texans should go about their daily lives as usual, but remain vigilant over the next several days and report any suspicious activity to state or local law enforcement,” Abbott said in a statement.
Meanwhile, DPS states it continually monitors events, involving potential public safety impacts at the state and national level.
"We can also assure Texans that we adjust our level of vigilance to meet any potential or emerging threats, and will also adjust our security measures as threats warrant,” DPS said in a statement.
Copyright 2016 KXXV. All rights reserved.
