On the New York City Police Department (NYPD) Facebook page, a video was posted of Commissioner Edward A. Caban and other NYPD executives providing a briefing on security measures for the U.S. Open Tennis Championships being held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, New York.
During the briefing, the Commissioner commented that planning for this year’s U.S. Open Tennis Championships began the day after last year’s event ended. Spectators at the complex can expect to see overt and covert security methods and procedures to protect the public at the event.
Among the around-the-clock security measures announced during the conference by Rebecca Weiner, NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, is counter-drone capabilities outside the stadium. “NYPD and our law enforcement partners have a ‘zero tolerance’ policy for unauthorized persons found operating drones in and around the center.” Deputy Commissioner Weiner continued, “A reminder for anyone that the operating and flying of drones is strictly prohibited unless you are specifically authorized to do so. Anyone found in violation can risk their equipment being confiscated, or being subject to summons, or arrest.”
New York City updated its drone rules earlier this summer. In a July press conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced that the city is issuing new rules setting forth a permitting process and guidelines for the take-off and landing of unmanned aircraft in New York City. The rules allow for using drones for building inspections, infrastructure inspections, and capital project planning. Additionally, the rules ensure the proper safeguards are in place to protect the safety and privacy of all New Yorkers.
During the Macy’s 4th of July celebration, NYPD Counterterrorism Bureau Assistant Chief Judy Harrison discussed similar security preparations, mentioning that while most assets will be visible, some will remain hidden for security reasons. She emphasized deploying various teams, including plain clothes, heavy weapons, bomb squads, drone detection, and radiation detection teams.
Post Image- New York, NY, U.S.A. – Inside of USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center during US Open (Image Credit: Adobe Stock by vacant)
