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BSO Preps For Worst After Boston Bombings

FORT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) – Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel held a special briefing with members of his command staff Tuesday to discuss the security situation in the county in the wake of the Boston bombings.

"It's not business as usual," Sheriff Israel said. "It's a different day. It's a tragedy and weighs heavy on our hearts and we know that, but for the grace of God, it could have been Broward County."

The meeting, held on the fifth floor of BSO Headquarters, was attended by senior staff, including colonels, majors, and captains.

Major Michael DiMaggio, who oversees BSO's Patrol Services Bureau, told the meeting that BSO's bomb squad is doing protective sweeps at Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades.

"We've also sent members of our SWAT team to the Port and Airport to assist with high visibility patrols on foot," said DiMaggio.

Broward County Fire Rescue said its hazardous materials teams and technical rescue teams are making sure their equipment is in order and that they are ready to go. Colonel Al Pollock, who ran the briefing, was told the team to remain vigilant.

"The more intelligence we gather, the better prepared we are," Colonel Pollock said.

Sheriff Israel encouraged the team to talk to community partners, religions institutions, and governmental contacts.

"Let's make sure we're getting information back unflitered," said Sheriff Israel.

Sheriff Israel went on to say BSO is ready to support the City of Fort Lauderdale with whatever requests they have for additional security, in the event BSO resources are needed for this upcoming weekend's air show.

"People have back packs and coolers and all these things at these outdoor events and who knows what's contained inside," Sheriff Israel said. "Yesterday, unfortunately, our brothers in Boston found out and we just don't want that to happen down here."

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