Detroit officials prepare for Sunday night with increased police presence and collaboration with multiple agencies.
The city of Detroit is gearing up for the highly anticipated Lions game at Ford Field on Sunday night with robust security measures to ensure fan safety. While Detroit Interim Police Chief Todd Bettison has refrained from sharing specific details of the plans, he emphasized that attendees will notice an increased police presence downtown.
Collaborative Efforts Across Agencies
“In preparation for Sunday’s game, I have additional resources… whether it’s HSI, the FBI, state police, [or] Wayne County sheriff,” Bettison explained. The Detroit Police Department (DPD) will also receive support from Oakland and Macomb County sheriff departments. Bettison reassured the public that the collaboration would be visible, adding, “If you see sheriffs from Oakland County… that’s the collaboration.”
These efforts reflect the city’s commitment to ensuring a secure environment for fans attending the game and other large-scale events in the coming weeks.
Lessons from Past Events
Bettison pointed to Detroit’s successful management of prior high-profile events, including the NFL Draft, as evidence of the city’s preparedness. “Think about the NFL Draft, what we did, how we provided the safety posture — we know what we’re doing,” he said.
While he acknowledged the tragic recent terror attack in New Orleans might weigh on people’s minds, Bettison assured residents that Detroit is taking every precaution. “We do look nationally and internationally to assess what’s going on,” he added.
Community Reactions
Detroit residents shared their perspectives on attending large events amidst heightened security concerns. Jeron Whitehorn expressed confidence, saying, “I pay attention to what is going on, but I feel safe in my city.”
Another attendee, Joe Duncan, emphasized living without fear. “I try not to live in fear of anything. I mean, you have to be able to just have fun with life, and if you live in fear, there’s no use to having fun. So come down and experience while you can,” he said.
Staying Vigilant
Despite reassurances, law enforcement remains on high alert, even though no credible threats have been identified against Detroit or the Sunday night game. Bettison urged the public to remain cautious and proactive: “If you see something suspicious, make sure you say something.”
As fans prepare to fill Ford Field for a thrilling night of football, the collaborative efforts of Detroit’s law enforcement agencies stand ready to provide a safe and secure environment for all.