More Than 4,000 Feds Provided Security at GOP Convention

One down, one to go.

The Republican National Convention ended Thursday night without violent incidents, prompting a statement of praise for the multi-agency security effort that will continue next week for the Democrats’ event in Philadelphia.

Some 3,000 Homeland Security Department personnel aided the Cleveland Division of Police this past week in protecting delegates, politicians and protesters at the “National Special Security Event,” security for which was led by the Secret Service. Also on hand were agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations unit, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Coast Guard, along with 1,100 other federal personnel, DHS announced on Friday.

“The security for massive events like a national political convention is business as usual for the Secret Service, but they deserve our praise and appreciation for this incredible effort,” Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said in a statement, noting that “planning for the security of both the RNC and DNC began more than a year ago.”

Johnson, who will travel to Philadelphia on Friday, also commended the Cleveland police under the leadership of Chief Calvin Williams for acting with “restraint and professionalism” as ideologically antagonistic demonstrators converged on the event that nominated Donald Trump for president.

Their efforts, Johnson added, “serve as a timely reminder that these men and women are prepared to put their bodies and their lives on the line for the people they protect and serve, regardless of who we are, our cause, our political affiliation or ideological belief.”

(Image via Flickr user Gage Skidmore)