Security Plans for 9/11 Trials Soar Beyond $75 Million
Security plans for the upcoming 9/11 trials in New York City will top $75 million.
According to the Associated Press, Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly says the security plans for the 9/11 trials cost more than the the initial estimate of $75 million. Although he didn't say the exact amount, he told the media holding the 9/11 trials has soared "way beyond" the estimated cost.
Kelly recently drafted security plans for the trials of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and four others in New York federal court. The men have been charged with war crimes and securing the trials will call for extra law enforcement.
As previously discussed, United States Attorney General Eric Holder Jr. has been working with Manhattan Police Department to draft security plans to provide security around the venue and protection of the city including its bridges and transit system.
In addition, Sen. Charles Schummer has requested money in the federal budget to help the city with the extra cost. He is seeking federal aid to pay for extra security, such as sniper teams.
The planned trial of Mohammed and four accused accomplices has sparked debate in the city where nearly 3,000 people died in the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center.
According to a new poll, about 40 percent of New Yorkers believe the trial of accused September 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed makes an attack on the city more likely.
The NYPD says there aren't enough officers to handle 9/11 trial security, so much of the cost will come from overtime and federal aid.
There is no trial date yet. No decision has been made on how the cost will be paid.
- Many New Yorkers say 9/11 trial a security risk (Reuters)
- Plans to try 9/11 suspect in NYC draw fire (USA Today)
- KSM, 4 Other Gitmo Detainees, to be Tried in N.Y. Federal Court (FindLaw's CourtSide)
- Constitutional Protections for Defendants (provided by Rasmussen & Miner)
- Criminal Justice System Timeline (provided by Michael A. Fakhoury, Esq., P.C.)