Law enforcement gearing up for Sunday's Super Bowl

Originally Published: 29 JAN 20 17:53 ET
Updated: 29 JAN 20 17:55 ET

    (CNN) -- After more than of a year of planning, the National Football League and law enforcement officials said Wednesday they are ready for this week's Super Bowl and related events.

The Kansas City Chiefs will play the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida on Sunday.

Cathy Lanier, the league's senior vice president of security, local and federal law enforcement spoke generally about the security plans. The plans include increased aviation and maritime resources, the assistance of federal authorities like the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security and nearly 1,500 Miami police officers patrolling the area.

The Federal Aviation Administration has also issued temporary flight restrictions in the area in the days leading up to the Super Bowl and the game, law enforcement officials said.

"Here we are now, first and 10, at the goal line, ready to score and ready to win," Miami Dade Police director Alfredo Ramirez told reporters. "And winning for us is to provide a safe and happy Super Bowl environment."

While there is no specific or credible threat to the Super Bowl, officials said they are on high alert.

"It is an extremely high risk and iconic American event. Security preparations are structured accordingly," Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said.

The Super Bowl is a possible target for potential terrorists, human trafficking activity and the sale of counterfeit goods, he said.

Wolf said law enforcement officials are "prepared on all fronts for all threats."

Drones are banned around the Miami Beach Convention Center for the NFL Super Bowl Experience and Bayfront Park for Super Bowl Live during the days leading up to Sunday, the FAA said. The Hard Rock Stadium is a "No Drone Zone" on Sunday, the FAA said.

Those who violate the restrictions could face civil penalties that exceed more than $30,000 and possible criminal prosecution.

"Please leave your drones at home," Lanier said.

George Piro, the special agent in charge of the Miami Field Office, said an FBI team detected 53 unauthorized drones in restricted air space this week.

He said authorities have contacted the drone operators and informed them of the violation.

"After today, the drone operators may potentially end up having their drones seized and forfeited," Piro said.

Lanier, the former police chief in Washington D.C., said law enforcement will have "360 degree security" for the Super Bowl.

"We have security on the water. We have security in the air. We have security on the ground," she said.

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