Metro Steps Up Security For Possible 9/11 Threat

As the tenth anniversary of 9/11 approaches, and with news of a credible threat to Washington, police officers are stepping up patrols on Metro.

Mercedes Burke says she was startled to see police officers with large guns and bomb-sniffing dogs patrol the platforms as she rode the Metro in Montgomery County this morning. 

"I've seen a sharp shooter and maybe six police cars," Burke says. "I was a little nervous."

Montgomery County police spokesman Captain Paul Starks says the department has been increasing security around 9/11 anniversaries for years. The news of a threat against Washington only affirmed the practice.

"I don't want to say business as usual, but we are becoming accustomed to having this plan in place," says Starks.

Still, he says riders should be extra alert this weekend.

"If a person sees something that doesn't look right or doesn't fit, don't come up with a reason or excuse or alibi for it in your head," he says. "Let us come, and let us resolve the matter."

Metro released a statement yesterday saying there is no credible threat against the system. But the agency is also increasing police patrols to coincide with the anniversary.

"At least they have precautionary measures out there and that makes me feel better," says Burke.

Meanwhile, says she was frightened at first. But now she says she feels a little bit safer. After all, she says, this is what life is like in a post-9/11 world.