Increased police presence during heightened state of alert

Due to information about a creditable, but uncorroborated, threat on the eve of the 10th anniversary of 9/11 to New York City, the Nassau County police have increased patrols at train stations, shopping centers and at the county border with Queens.

The police are asking for the public’s assistance. Should you see someone or something that looks out of place, or someone you usually don’t see in an area, call 911.

“During this heightened state of awareness, we will have more police at train stations and shopping centers,” said County Executive Ed Mangano.

Mangano noted the “See something, say something” campaign of informing authorities of suspicious packages or people and requested that residents call 911 with that type of information.

“You know your neighborhoods. If you see someone suspicious or over dressed for the weather, or packages that don’t belong — I cannot stress this enough — call 911,” he said.

Nassau is deploying police in tactical gear and other uniformed officers in increased numbers. Police with radiation detectors are assigned to Hempstead Turnpike and Sunrise Highway and license plate readers at the New York City line.

“We are leaving no stone unturned,” said Deputy Chief Frank Kirby, who is overseeing the increased 9/11 deployment, and echoed Mangano’s request to the public to call in information. “When we get the information we will visit the site,” Kirby added.

These emergency operations are part of police operations and are constantly being planned and rehearsed, Acting Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter noted. “These are active plans that are practiced,” he said.

An example of “See something, say something” was the incident at the Hicksville train station on Friday, where an MTA employee saw a car that looked out of place and appeared to have suspicious items inside. He called the police and the bomb squad was called in. It was determined that the vehicle and its contests posed no threat. It was impounded and the owner identified, Kirby said.

“Constant communication increases security,” said Mangano, who added that people should go about their lives and enjoy the weekend. “We are in contact with federal, state and other local authorities.”