A right-wing protester faces off with Oregon State Troopers at the Oregon State Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 6, shortly before an unlawful assembly was declared. (Amanda Loman/Salem Reporter)
The Federal Bureau of Investigations Portland Field Office is working with Oregon State Police, the Salem Police Department and the Portland Police Bureau is preparing for potential violence next week as president-elect Joe Biden is slated to be sworn into office. The preparations follow an insurrection at the nation’s Capitol last week.
“Given the unrest at the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021, we are maintaining a heightened posture to monitor for any emerging threats to our region. We are focused on identifying, investigating, and disrupting individuals who were involved in the siege of the U.S. Capitol and/or those who may continue to incite violence and engage in criminal activity here locally,” a news release stated.
The announcement comes as an earlier FBI memo warned of armed protests the days leading up to inauguration day. The Oregon Army National Guard is on standby to assist with potential civil unrest and protests.
The FBI is running a command post to gather intelligence and coordinate with local law enforcement on threats to the state Capitol, federal buildings and “our shared community,” the release said.
The FBI is urging people with tips to call 503-224-4181 or go to tips.fbi.gov to submit information regarding any potential violence at any upcoming protest or event.
