Police Gear Up For Possible Attack In Louisiana Following Dallas Shooting

Law enforcement around the state are gearing up for a potential threat in Louisiana following the Dallas attack that left five police officers dead and seven injured. State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says there is concern that something similar could happen in Louisiana because a suspect in the Dallas shooting told police he was upset about the police violence in Baton Rouge and Minnesota.

“We understand that. So we’ve got to be prepared for what could take place here because there’s not a matter of if, it’s when, and we’ve for to be prepared for that,” Edmonson said.

Edmonson says police have been investigating riot threats that have been made on social media and asks the public to be on the lookout for suspicious activity. He says police are preparing to handle any situation that may arise. He says they will monitor any protests this weekend to protect citizens’ right to protest peacefully.

“I met with my mobile field force commanders and my squad last night as this was unfolding. We have them staged and prepared to respond when called upon,” Edmonson said.

Edmonson says they are working on race relations between law enforcement and the public. He says in order for people to respect authorities, they have to be able to trust them. He says that starts with transparency and communication.

“You’ve got to be part of a community and not apart from it. That’s when you start making mistakes. It can’t be an individual effort,” Edmonson said.