There have been no credible threats of terrorism targeting Atlanta, police said Sunday. But officers increased patrols at entertainment spots and worship centers frequented by the gay community, and bar owners also planned to increase security following a mass shooting at an Orlando nightclub.
Officers monitored vigils held Sunday night to mourn those killed, Atlanta Police Department spokeswoman Elizabeth Espy said. The department also increased patrols Sunday around clubs, restaurants, community centers and places of worship as a precaution.
“We continue to work with our federal partners to monitor any threats in the Atlanta area,” the police department said in an emailed statement. “There are no credible threats at this time.”
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is communicating with the FBI and Department of Homeland Security about the potential for threats, a GBI spokeswoman said.
While many Atlanta bars have security guards or off-duty officers already in place, the mass shooting was a horrific reminder to remain vigilant — even if it angers some patrons.
Jennifer Maguire, co-owner of lesbian bar My Sister’s Room and a Florida native, lived in Orlando for about six years before moving to Atlanta. Her bar began implementing strict security about four years ago when she took over the business.
“At first, people were pretty upset, but unfortunately, this is what it has come to in the world we live in,” she said.
Everyone who enters the bar is given a “full-body pat-down,” and on weekends, an Atlanta police officer is stationed outside alongside signs that emphasize that weapons and illegal drugs are not allowed in the bar, Maguire said. Inside, two security guards are on hand to make sure that patrons feel secure.
“I’m a paranoid person,” she said. “I want people of all orientations to feel safe (in My Sister’s Room).”
John Hagins, owner and operations manager of gay club Traxx Atlanta, said pat-downs are conducted at his bar, too. Effective immediately, security will also use hand-held wands to check for weapons and contraband, he said Sunday. For weekends and special events, five security guards work at Traxx Atlanta, which uses a security company and off-duty police officers.
In addition to extra patrols, Atlanta police plans to offer additional educational seminars for residents. Many metro police agencies have also conducted active shooter training sessions, including Marietta police, which had hundreds attend a December session.
“We will be setting up additional active shooter trainings so that our citizens and visitors feel prepared if they are ever faced with a situation similar to the one in Orlando,” Espy said.
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