State Police Maj. Rick Wall speaks to reporters about security for the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. (Massachusetts State Police)
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Speaking to reporters on the Charles River Esplanade hours before the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular was set to kick off, Massachusetts State Police gave an update on security for the event.
One message was clear—no drones allowed.
There is a temporary flight restriction in place that could lead to federal charges for any drone operators on July 4.
"We've already located four drone operators and identified them," Maj. Wall said. "That is a challenge for us, to make sure that we can do that, and we're just asking the public's help with drones ... We have zero drones flying, law enforcement, public safety have no drones flying. The drones are a danger to our Air Wing, which will be up."
Wall also reminded anyone coming down to the Esplanade for the festivities to check the prohibited items list, which can be found here on the event's website.
"We don't want you coming down with wheeled coolers or backpacks or things that we won't let you in with," Wall said.
The State Police have "upwards of 700" State Police members on the Esplanade for the event, including a new class of 171 State Police Recruit Training Troop graduates—and Wall said that, when other law enforcement agencies like Boston and Cambridge Police and other federal partners are included, law enforcement numbered over 1,000.
"Make sure that you're prepared, you stay hydrated, bring some sunblock," Wall said. "Above all else, when you come down here and enjoy all this, if you see something, say something. If you see something out of the ordinary, help us. There's no credible threats to this event, and we're expecting a safe and enjoyable event."
Listen to Maj. Wall's full remarks below.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@JamesRojasWBZ) reports