U.S. Attorney’s Office Issues Warning Ahead of Potential Inauguration Day Protests

(KNSI) – The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minneapolis is issuing a warning to those who decide not to protest peacefully today and in the coming days.

The office and its federal law enforcement partners from the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, and Homeland Security will “devote all our resources to protect public safety throughout the State of Minnesota in the coming days,” and added that they would respond to threats of violence and acts of violence with state and local law enforcement.

There will also be a 24 hour FBI led command post to share information and intelligence between law enforcement agencies, likely similar to the State Emergency Operations Command that was set up during the George Floyd riots in May.

Some groups have issued direct threats to state capitols ahead of Inauguration Day today, but public safety officials in Minnesota said late last week, the threat to the state capitol in St. Paul has faded.

A press release from the office warns any person or group who engage in criminal activity will face federal charges.

U.S. Attorney Erica MacDonald says anyone who sees anything suspicious should speak up by calling the FBI at 1-800-225-5324.