New York City is on high alert pending the potential arrest of former President Donald Trump for an alleged hush money payment.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is investigating the $130,000 payment, allegedly made by Trump and his business associates to adult film star Stormy Daniels back in 2016. It could be a violation of New York state business practices.
Much like when he called on supporters to rally against the election results giving Democrat Joe Biden victory in the 2020 presidential election, Trump is again asking loyalists to protest. Given that the prior messaging led to the Capitol insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021, the city doesn't want to take any chances.
Multiple agencies are involved in plans to protect the city. While the NYPD will have a heavy presence, the situation is unique in that it concerns a former president, and also a leading candidate for president in 2024. Security efforts will therefore also include both the FBI and the Secret Service. The NYPD will handle most of the arrests arising from any unrest.
While some rallies were scheduled for Monday evening in lower Manhattan, reactions to Trump's calls for protests have been largely muted. A handful of protesters hit the streets, but there was far more media presence than there were people rallying. The same could be said about Tuesday morning, where mainly just members of the media stood waiting outside the Manhattan courthouse.
Nonetheless, barricades have gone up and security remains tight.
Should Trump be arrested, it would mark the first time a former president has ever been indicted.
DA leading Trump case says rhetoric won't intimidate office
Law enforcement officials in New York are closely monitoring online chatter warning of protests and violence if Trump is arrested.
