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WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Chief of Capitol Police told U.S. Senators they’ve made a lot of changes in security and planning since the deadly U.S. Capitol attack. However, USCP said they still have a lot of work to do.
“Do you believe the department are able to defend the type of threat that we saw a year ago today than the department was back then,” asked Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D- MN).
“Yes, absolutely,” replied USCP Chief Thomas Manger.
The U.S. Capitol Police Chief, Thomas Manger told senators they’re better equipped and prepared to defend Congress.
“While I’m proud of our officers the events of January 6, it did expose critical departmental failures and deficiencies with planning, intelligence, staffing and equipment,” said Manger.
In a hearing, senators followed up with Manger on security changes within capitol police following the attack. Back then, Manger said some officers didn’t have all of the necessary equipment, like riot shields, immediately available to them. After previous reports that intelligence warnings of attacks were ignored or overlooked, Manger lists off communication improvements they’ve made to address that:
“A biweekly classified intelligence briefing, intelligence reporting coordination between law enforcement partners,” added Manger.
Since the attacks, Congress has helped provide money to USCP to boost the department and given them enough flexibility to call in for additional backup.
“It’s our job to honor their service by doing our part to ensure they’re never faced with the circumstances that they were faced with that day,” said Sen. Roy Blunt (R- MO).
Even with these changes, Manger said they’re short roughly 400 police officers. This year, they want to hire at least 280. The supply chain issues is also preventing them from getting the proper equipment.
In all, senators and Manger seem happy with the progress that’s been made.
“While more work remains to be done, the men and women of Capitol Police stand ready to fulfill their mission each and everyday,” said Manger.
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