APD, MARTA stepping up security after Boston Marathon explosions

Transit agency says there are ‘no credible threats to transit at this time’

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In response to today’s explosions near the finish line of the Boston Marathon, the Atlanta Police Department and MARTA Police are announcing stepped-up patrols and security measures.

In a statement expressing condolences and support for Boston and the people affected by the explosions, Mayor Kasim Reed said: “Here at home, the City of Atlanta’s First Responders are currently taking additional measures to enhance the safety of our citizens and protect them from senseless acts of violence.”

A MARTA spokeswoman says in a released statement there are no “credible threats to transit at this time,” but adds that the transit agency is asking its employees and police department to “be vigilant and remain on high alert.”

The transit agency’s police force is working with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, the statement says, in addition to the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority - which is led by former MARTA CEO Bev Scott - and Transit Security Administration in Washington, D.C. MARTA is also in contact with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency, and its liaison to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.

In addition, MARTA is, among other measures, deploying K-9 units to make additional patrols, increasing its police presence, and encouraging the public to report suspicious activity or unattended packages to a MARTA Police officer or employee or call 404-848-4911. The transit agency is also recommending riders download the See & Say app that helps straphangers to report crimes.