While the thousands of attendees will be focused on the politics of the Republican National Convention, a significant law enforcement presence will be focused on security.

“There’s still no higher priority than public safety,” said one security official

“We’ve been working hard to ensure safety,” a Milwaukee police officer said.

“Our primary focus is safety,” said a third security official.

Michael Hensle is the special agent in charge of the FBI for Wisconsin, one of the lead agencies responsible for convention safety and bringing personnel to Milwaukee.

“Thousands are being brought in to make sure it’s safeguarded,” Hensle said. “We have over 12 different agencies, both federal, state and local involved in this national event.”

Hensle described the scope of law enforcement involvement.

“The primary being the Secret Service, who has the primary jurisdiction both for the RNC here and then in August, the DNC in the Chicago area. Milwaukee PD, the Highway Patrol, really every agency within the state has some component — Coast Guard, [and] fire [departments].”

The Secret Service has established two perimeters around the Fiserv Forum, which is where most of the convention activity will be held.

The larger perimeter is roughly a 10-by-10 block area that is open to the public, but any vehicle entering must be screened. The smaller perimeter is restricted only to pedestrians who have convention credentials, and they must enter through a security checkpoint.

Restricted items not allowed in either security perimeter include flammable liquids, ropes, chains, large pieces of lumber and hammers. Additionally, firearms will not be allowed in the convention-only smaller perimeter.

Flammable liquids, ropes, chains, large lumber and hammers are among the items restricted in both security zones surrounding the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, which is hosting the 2024 Republican National Convention from July 15 through July 18. Firearms are restricted in the interior security zone, but are allowed in the wider restricted area per Wisconsin’s open carry law. (Credit: Here & Now)

However, per state law, firearms will be allowed within the larger security perimeter that is open to the public. Maritime restrictions will also be in place, so no boats will be allowed on the part of the Milwaukee River that flows through downtown.

Hensel said that it’s not just up to law enforcement to keep the RNC safe.

“Let your local law enforcement agencies know if you’re concerned about something,” he said. “That’s everyone’s responsibility and I think by doing that, we’re able to more effectively both police our local communities, but also address any concerns that the public may have.”