Review current emergency evacuation plans and make sure they are sufficient to support the additional foot traffic. Consider whether other plans should be created for possible threats.
Assess locations adjacent to and immediately surrounding the courthouse to determine whether vehicle or foot traffic need to be restricted. Develop working relationships with law enforcement agencies and personnel who have jurisdiction over the exterior of the courthouse and immediately surrounding areas. Communicate concerns about security risks and request details about plans to address those concerns.
Assess the need for bomb detection measures in the courtroom and the courthouse. If bomb sweeps are necessary, determine the time, location(s), frequency required. Estimate the number of media and public spectators who are likely to enter the courthouse for the high-profile case and secure a sufficient number of court security officers and devices (i.e., metal detectors, wands, x-ray machines) to expedite screening during high-volume times. If necessary, obtain stanchion posts and ropes to create entrance queues.
Evaluate the size and location of the courtroom being used in the case. It should be large enough to accommodate the number of participants and security personnel, but not so large that it would encourage disruptions by spectators. Consider temporarily reassigning courtroom space if the presiding judge’s regular courtroom is not suitable for a high-profile case. Determine whether offices, courtrooms, or other rooms located on the floors directly above, below, and adjacent to the proposed courtroom pose a security hazard. Consider securing hallways and areas near judges’ chambers and meeting rooms.
In a case involving upgraded security, consider whether buildings or other structures with windows facing the courtroom pose a potential security threat.
Assess the security of public areas adjacent to the courtroom. If possible, seal off the corridor with barricades or barriers as a checkpoint to more easily inspect the credentials for persons entering the courtroom. Ensure that security procedures do not unduly interfere with access to other courtrooms or offices in the immediate vicinity.
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