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Nassau leaders react to attacks in Paris

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Nassau County police are increasing patrols in response to the terrorist attacks in Paris, officials here said Monday.

At a news conference Monday morning, County Executive Edward Mangano said, “Here in Nassau County we are responding with intensified patrols, especially at large, known gatherings. In addition, we continue to participate in the Joint Terrorism Task Force that provides important intelligence to keep our county safe. That task force is in touch with many, many agencies, including the New York Police Department, and over the years has absolutely prevented acts of terrorism here in our country and certainly here within our borders, and they’ll continue to work closely together in that regard.”

Acting Nassau Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter said that the department is on heightened alert. “Let me emphasize that at the present time, there are no credible threats,” he said, “but it is important to prepare for the worst and pray for the best.” He noted that officers undergo training throughout the year for active-shooter and worst-case scenarios.

Among the sites of added patrols, Krumpter said, are local malls. He said that the NCPD’s Bureau of Special Operations and the Criminal Intelligence Rapid Response Team have been patrolling locations where the public gathers.

“Earlier this year,” Krumpter added, “at the direction of the county executive, all of the patrol sector cars in this county were provided with heavy body armor, and that is just preparation. Again, it is all about preparation.”

In Baldwin, Thomas Ryley, president of the Baldwin Interfaith Conference, said, the attack “tells us we live in very perilous times, and it’s a reminder of the fact that we’re not going to get through the next century without considerable difficulty.”

Speaking in French, Ryley said, “We’re all French.” He echoed President Obama’s words after the attack, saying, “It’s not an attack on Paris, it’s an attack on civilization.”

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