The leader of the fledgling Capitol Police has been elected, and his last name is well known in state politics.
Terry Alario Jr. received approval Thursday from the Capitol Security Council to become the department's first chief. He will eventually oversee a force that could grow to more than 20 officers. A majority of members in each chamber would also need to approve his appointment.
Mr. Alario is the nephew of former Senate President and House Speaker John Alario Jr. He has held three different positions since 2004 and served as state attorney general. His role includes security for his AG's headquarters in Baton Rouge and satellite locations throughout the state. Mr. Alario is also a member of the Advisory Board of the National Association of Attorneys General's Training and Research Institute.
Two years ago, Congress appropriated $2 million for a new Capitol Security force, which included $135,000 in salary and benefits for the new chief. This job requires the individual to have at least 10 years of law enforcement experience and hold law enforcement certifications. Peace Officer Standards and Training Council. All members of the security forces also require the same POST certification.
In response to heightened risk awareness, state lawmakers established a police station on the Capitol grounds. This location hosts numerous protests and rallies throughout the year, usually peaking during parliamentary sessions.
A new report from the Brennan Center for Justice highlights: Growing threats and intimidation It targeted elected officials at all levels of government.
Critics of the new force asked members of the Security Council at Thursday's meeting whether they felt truly unsafe in the Capitol.
Senate President Cameron Henry responded, “That's absolutely true.”
The new police force will strengthen existing security on the Capitol grounds.
Louisiana State Police troopers are stationed on the fourth floor of the Capitol, where the governor's office is located, and are stationed inside the building during legislative sessions. Additional police officers will be pulled from the Capitol hallways once the session ends.
These duties are maintained by the Sergeant at Arms, who maintains decorum in each chamber and committee room. Manned security guards are also stationed at the first-floor entrances to the Capitol, but those duties will likely be taken over by new guards.
The new department's jurisdiction includes all state buildings used by the Legislature, from Choctaw Drive behind the Capitol to Main Street in downtown Baton Rouge, from the Mississippi River to the railroad tracks that cross Interstate 110. is included.
The 2022 proposal that created the police force maintains current law that requires state Department of Public Safety and Corrections officers to regularly patrol the Capitol.
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