Capitol police detail security plans for Kehoe inauguration following lawmaker concerns
by John Murphy, KOMU 8 Anchor
JEFFERSON CITY — Missouri Capitol Police are working on security preparations ahead of Mike Kehoe’s inauguration as Missouri’s 58th governor on Monday.
Some state lawmakers expressed concern about a lack of communication between the department and lawmakers during a Thursday hearing dedicated to Capitol security.
"Our concern was the communication factor and the barrier that, for some reason, has been placed in not communicating with both chambers and the Capitol Police," said Sen. Rick Brattin, R-Harrisonville, chair of the Senate Capitol Security Committee. "They were really aloof as to what they were going to do at first."
Brattin said after the committee went into a closed session with Capitol Police officers on Thursday, police went into further detail regarding the plans to keep the Capitol secure for the inauguration.
The meeting was closed to the public for about an hour, the Missouri Independent reported.
Brattin said he is satisfied with the plans Capitol Police detailed.
"The amount of officers and National Guard and all the levels and layers, I mean, it’s going to be a very, very secure process and event," Brattin said. "So, we’re happy with the level in which they’re doing."
In a statement to KOMU 8, the Missouri Department of Public Safety said state and local law enforcement have well-established plans and comprehensive security measures in place.
"We cannot publicly disclose specific details, but the plans are evaluated and adjusted for each inauguration based on developments at the local, national and international level, as well as current intelligence gathering," the department said in the statement. "Planning has been going on for months, while continually monitoring events to ensure the public has a safe and enjoyable experience as Missouri’s 58th Governor is sworn into office.
Kehoe’s inaugural ceremony is at 11:30 a.m. Monday on the Capitol’s South Lawn. It will be followed by a march of Budweiser Clydesdales to the Governor’s Mansion and an Inaugural Ball that night. KOMU 8 will have live coverage from Jefferson City on Monday.
