Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling expressed confidence in the readiness of the city’s police force to manage anticipated protests during the Democratic National Convention.

With preparations underway for over a year, law enforcement is bracing for an influx of around 50,000 visitors and significant demonstrations.

Snelling emphasized enhanced training, including de-escalation techniques and specialized training for approximately 3,000 officers to handle civil unrest and potential riots.

Proposed adjustments to mass arrest procedures aim for improved supervision and post-event debriefings to evaluate effectiveness.

Snelling stressed that mass arrests are a last resort, but acknowledged the potential for vandalism and violence, the Associated Press has reported.

Despite permit denials for protests near the convention site, over 50 organizations plan to demonstrate, sparking legal challenges and vows to march regardless.

The department’s handling of large-scale events has drawn scrutiny in the past.

Written by B.C. Begley