| As they’ve done since 9/11. |
[FoxNews] An overseas war between Israel and Hamas brought tensions to a boil throughout the U.S., including New York City, where over 1 million people are expected to ring in the new year.
James Smith, assistant director in charge of New York's FBI Field Office, said there are concerns about international and domestic terrorism and a rise in hate crimes, and law enforcement follows up on all threats.
"I would say overall that, yes, there are threats out there, but we are out there to protect the community day in and day out," Smith told Fox News Digital.
"That's our mission – to protect the community of all threats."
Smith said the FBI, which is working with dozens of local, state and other federal law enforcement agencies, is ready to pounce on potential threats.
But it's just as important that revelers pay attention to their surroundings and follow the adage, "If you see something, say something."
"We cannot protect the community without people reporting if there's a threat or if a potential crime is about to take place," Smith said.
There will be a massive law enforcement presence in and around Times Square Sunday night into early Monday. Some will be undercover; others will be in tactical gear. |