Airports boost security after Fort Lauderdale shooting spree
Friday, 10 Jan, 2017
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Airports across the country have beefed up security measures following the deadly mass shooting at Fort Lauderdale Airport.
There is a visible presence of more security personnel with Port Authority Police at New York airports carrying heavy tactical weapons and armored vehicles parked at terminals.
Dog patrols and random bag checks have also been increased, ABC News reports.
There was also a much bigger security presence at Boston, Miami and Los Angeles.
Airports in Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Tampa and San Diego have boosted security in the so-called ‘soft target’ areas – pre departure areas and baggage claim which are open to all members of the public including those not traveling by air.
These are security blind spots which need to be plugged permanently, said John Cohen, former DHS counterterrorism coordinator.
"Local airport authorities should make it a priority to have uniformed law enforcement officers patrolling these non-secured areas," he told ABC News.
"These officers should be trained to recognize the behaviors of an individual who may be planning or preparing to carry out an attack and should also be trained to respond to a mass casualty attacker or active shooter."
Shooting suspect Esteban Santiago made his first court appearance on Monday and could face the death penalty a federal magistrate judge said.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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