Charlotte police detail new DNC security measures

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Tags:

dnc, abc11 investigates, steve dorsey

CHARLOTTE (WTVD) -- Software that identifies security threats, helicopter communications upgrades, and a new command center will be used to help keep the Democratic National Convention safe.

The security measures taken by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police are detailed in new information obtained by ABC11.

» Click here to read the document (.pdf) «

The convention runs from September 3-6. It will span uptown Charlotte, and host President Barack Obama at Bank of America stadium.

Money to fund the security-related purchases is coming from a $50 million federal law enforcement grant for this year's convention in Charlotte. Authorities in Tampa also received the same amount of money for security preparations, services and equipment for the Republican National Convention.

Among the largest expenses released for the 2012 DNC are insurance costs for law enforcement officers totaling nearly $2 million.

The highly-redacted document shows nearly $1.5 million for lodging for out-of-town officers who will help with security. Raleigh police say they will provide assistance, but decline to speak specifically. It's unclear how many police officers will be at the convention.

Security remains a major concern. In the document CMPD says it expects "crowd management issues," though the actual threat wasn't disclosed. However, dozens of organizations are planning DNC protests beginning September 1, including the Occupy group.

The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI are also providing security assistance.