New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D-NY) directed the New York State Police and the National Guard to deploy an additional 1,000 officers across the state on Sunday after an explosion in Chelsea.
In addition to the increased deployment of officers, Cuomo directed the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the New York State Police, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to remain on a heightened state of alert.
“Protecting the safety of New Yorkers and our state’s visitors is priority number one,” Cuomo said. “After thorough inspection, train service has been restored and we continue to work closely with our local and federal partners to monitor the situation. Out of an abundance of caution, we are increasing security at high-profile locations across the city, and all state agencies continue to remain on alert.”
The MTA has increased its patrols and surveillance in order to provide heightened security across all of its agencies. The MTA Police Department also increased its uniformed and plain-clothes officer presence, while police canine teams and emergency units will provide an extra layer of protection.
Cuomo said that railroad customers will see a surge in patrols, increased step-on/step-off patrols of trains, and random bag checks at various locations.