No credible threats have occurred, but if rumored peaceful protests occur this weekend through next week in Indiana’s capital, Governor Eric Holcomb and Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter say the proper authorities are on alert in the event of an escalation.
In his press briefing on Wednesday, Governor Holcomb noted that Indiana has not had the same election issues than in other parts of the country, but it has been rumored that protests could be occurring in all state capitals this weekend.
ISP Superintendent Doug Carter said efforts have been made to keep safety and order even though a direct threat has not been associated with events.
“I’m not certainly going to expose a very complex series of planning that’s been done,” stated Superintendent Carter. “I recognize that there is a lot of concern out there, and rightfully so, but I really want that to be my worry and not yours. I can tell you that we really leaned into what we think and what we know based on what we’ve seen over the course of these last six or seven days.”
He noted that the Indiana State Police has a very strong relationship with the Indiana National Guard and the Department of Homeland Security and many meetings have occurred over the past few days.
Superintendent Carter added, “I think we’re well positioned, but it is certainly my hope that what we do have positioned doesn’t have to be visible.”
Governor Holcomb said law and order will be maintained to “ensure a peaceful expression of opinions”.
The governor added that several members of the National Guard will be stationed in Washington, D.C. beginning Saturday.
“It was requested and I have authorized 625 women and men in the Indiana National Guard to go to Washington, D.C. through the 22nd to fulfill their national duty as well. That won’t in any way, remotely, come close to any sacrifice in the integrity of our job back here.”
