Amid rumors that Iran may be planning drone attacks against California in response to missile strikes by the United States and Israel, Los Angeles and federal authorities are tightening security for Sunday’s Academy Awards.
There are no credible or uncredible threat against the Dolby Theatre where Hollywood’s biggest night is set to take place, the Los Angeles Police Department told NBC Los Angeles Wednesday.
The LAPD is deploying uniformed officers, surveillance cameras and drones in the area while working closely with the federal partners and private security at the award show, the department said. About 1,000 private security officers will be present at and near the venue.
“We want to reassure every Angeleno that we continue to coordinate with all of our Federal, State, and local partners for intelligence and information sharing during the ongoing Middle East conflict,” the LAPD said in a statement. “We share this information in real time, assess every credible lead, and adjust our posture as needed to ensure the safety of our City.”
While monitoring intelligence, the LAPD also said it plans to activate its special units, including SWAT and bomb squad, equipped with bomb-sniffing dogs, on site.
Once attendees enter the Dolby Theatre, the venue will be locked down while security sweeps will take place multiple times throughout the day.
A one-mile security perimeter will be in place around the theater. People and cars that try to enter the secure perimeter will be checked, the LAPD told NBCLA.
Law enforcement sources confirmed to NBC News Wednesday that there were no specific threats of Iranian drone attacks planned against California despite other media reports.
Gov. Gavin Newsom said state officials have been monitoring intelligence channels and sharing information with local police, and said he was familiar with the media reports.
“Drone issues have been always top of mind, and we’ve assembled work groups specifically around those concerns,” he said during an unrelated news conference Wednesday.
His office emailed, “The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is actively working with state, local and federal security officials to protect our communities.”
The FBI also said it will continue to work with local law enforcement for special events, including the Academy Awards, by sharing intelligence and provide resources if needed.