Kerry Stroll May Test Convention Security

[dusty64]

Anyone else made a little nervous by this story?


May 28, 11:03 PM (ET)

By DENISE LAVOIE

(AP)

BOSTON (AP) - The toughest security test for the Democratic National Convention could come if John Kerry decides to take a stroll - from his Beacon Hill home to the convention site.

Organizers are taking unprecedented security steps at the first national political convention since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks - closing nearly 40 miles of major roads, banning parking around the FleetCenter and providing training to Boston police from experts who have responded to suicide terrorism in Israel and large crowds in Northern Ireland.

The decisions were made before federal law enforcement authorities warned on Wednesday that terrorists might target high-profile events this summer, including the political conventions. The Democratic gathering is July 26-29.

But for all the planning, the one wild card for organizers is if Kerry decides to make the mile-long walk from his townhouse in the exclusive Beacon Hill neighborhood to the FleetCenter, near the city's working-class North End.


"Obviously, we will be prepared if he does decide to do that, and we will provide a safe and secure environment for him to do that in," said Secret Service spokeswoman Ann Roman.

http://apnews.excite.com/article/20040529/D82RVQTG0.html