MINNEAPOLIS - Minneapolis police plan to step up security measures for this weekend’s Twin Cities Pride festivities.
The increased presence is in response to the Orlando shootings earlier this month that targeted a gay night club. A Florida man being investigated for terrorist connections is accused of killing 49 and injuring 53 in the attack.
“You will see a noticeable and visible increase of uniformed officers throughout the weekend at Twin Cities Pride,” Minneapolis Police Chief Janeé Harteau said in a statement. “This level of presence is unprecedented as we want to address the safety concerns we’ve heard about from our community. We want to ensure everyone feels, and is, safe.”
Her department is also encouraging residents to be on high alert. People are asked to tell police immediately if they spot something suspicious.
Ongoing Pride festivities include a free two-day festival in Loring Park (starts at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday), Pride in Concert featuring the Pointer Sisters (6-10 p.m. Saturday, Loring Park; $10) and the annual Ashley Rukes GLBT Pride Parade (11 a.m. Sunday, Hennepin Avenue.)
