In preparation for the Fourth of July, police are stepping up security and increasing police presence, especially on public transportation. Over 1,300 law enforcement and homeland security personnel are scheduled to participate in a counter-terrorism drill today in downtown Los Angeles.

Fox News reports that Operation Independence is a "major, high-visibility drill." Officers from LA County Sheriff's Department, working with the Department of Homeland Security and TSA agents, are planning one its biggest drills and deployments of the year to coincide with the holiday.

The two-day training exercise is “all about keeping L.A. safe,” Nicole Nishida of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department tells CBS News.

Although there's been no credible threat for the Los Angeles area, officials are exercising caution after the Boston Marathon bombing, which occurred on Patriot's Day.

more @ http://laist.com/2013/07/03/increased_security_fourth_of_july.php

Check out the member blogs, videos, and discussions @ http://12160.info