Proceeding with caution

Derby to keep tight security in wake of war with Iraq

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- A new police chief expressed his excitement for his first Kentucky Derby on Friday, while adding that security will be increased in the wake of the war against Iraq.

"I think we're ready," said Robert White, chief of the newly merged Louisville Metro Police Department, during an afternoon news conference. "It's obviously my first Derby and I'm extremely excited."

Officials said security measures that will be taken the week before and during the 129th Kentucky Derby will be nearly identical to last year's security plans, which were heightened after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11.

Some of last year's added precautions included barricades at each gate of Churchill Downs, limiting items that people can bring into the track on Derby weekend and an increase in numbers of patrolling officers.

One difference this year, is an increase in the number of federal agencies that will assist Louisville police on Derby weekend.

Maj. Michael Dossett with Louisville police said several more agencies were made available to the department since the development of the Homeland Security Office after Sept. 11.

Dossett would not name the 18 federal agencies assisting, nor would he estimate how many law enforcement officials would be present at Churchill Downs for Derby weekend, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of people from around the world.

"We don't release staffing or specific agencies for safety precautions," Dossett said.

But in events before the Run for the Roses -- which includes the Pegasus Parade and the balloon and steamboat races -- anywhere from 50 to 500 officers will patrol the events.

Last year, as Derby goers entered the track they were scanned with metal detectors and bags were hand-searched. This year, an X-ray machines will be added to each gate to search large bags. Officials said the added security task would ensure attendees a quick search.

"We don't want long lines on a hot day," said John Asher, spokesman for Churchill Downs.

Asher also reinforced that the track has banned certain items from being brought in, specifically coolers, bottles and backpacks. These changes were enforced last year. However, residents were able to buy these items at stores set up inside the track.

More than 300 officers will patrol the West Broadway Vendor Fair -- a street fair that has traditionally included thousands of local residents cruising on West Broadway on Derby Eve and Derby evenings. The annual street event has sometimes caused headaches for police because of lewd behavior and traffic problems.

"There is acceptable behavior and unacceptable behavior," said Dossett, noting that unacceptable behavior would be taken care of appropriately not only in the west area of Louisville, but also at Churchill Downs on Friday and Saturday.

 

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