BRADENTON, Fla. — With heightened security in Washington, Manatee County officers are answering the call to help.
"We take an oath to protect our constitution even at the local level," said Brian Thiers, Bradenton Police captain.
Thiers is one of 52 officers from Manatee County law enforcement agencies who are in the nation's capitol right now to work as security during Wednesday's inauguration.
Thiers says this is the fifth inauguration that Bradenton P.D. officers have helped with. But he says this event is much different than in previous years.
"When you looked down the side streets there was nothing. No cars, no people, it was almost like a ghost town, which is really sad. But at the same time, I understand it, and that’s our purpose for being here," said Thiers.
All 52 officers from Manatee County and 21 officers from North Port Police Department will be joining 25,000 national guard troops and officers from all around the country to protect Washington on Wednesday.
"Our officers are extremely excited. They’re proud to be here and we’re going to represent Bradenton and represent Florida like we should," said Thiers.
