Pro-Trump protesters stay away from Dover

Nick Siano Brandon Holveck
Delaware News Journal

The entire country is on high alert after law enforcement said there could be violent protests this weekend through Wednesday's inauguration of Joe Biden.

But so far, the scenes at state capitols across the country have been mostly quiet, with more police and media members present than protesters.

That was the case in Dover, Delaware's state capital, Sunday morning. A few police SUVs were stationed outside Legislative Hall, and some of the streets leading up to the building were blocked off. Legislative Hall is surrounded by a 6-foot-tall fence erected Friday afternoon.

There weren't any protesters present.

Delaware Gov. John Carney activated the National Guard last week to assist in the state and local areas, an order that expires Thursday, the day after the inauguration. The Delaware National Guard is also providing support in Washington for the inauguration.

What is Delaware doing for security?

Employees of Forrest Fence, a Kent and Sussex County-based company, erect a perimeter around the state Capitol shortly after noon on Friday, Jan. 15, 2021.

A 6-foot-tall fence was put up around Legislative Hall Friday afternoon.

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In a statement Friday, Delaware Capitol Police said that Capitol buildings "will be secured, and citizens can expect an increased visible law enforcement presence consisting of Capitol Police and other law enforcement partners."

Police started to restrict traffic around the Capitol complex Saturday.

Dover police said they will have extra officers on duty, as well as personnel on-call. 

The department, which shares protection of Legislative Hall with Capitol Police, has memoranda of understanding with other agencies, too, such as Delaware State Police.

How is Delaware assisting the inauguration?

Members of the Delaware National Guard have been in Washington since last week and were called to assist with security the night of the riot at the U.S. Capitol. 

Local law enforcement has not been called to assist with the inauguration.

Cpl. Jason Hatchell said, "The Delaware State Police will remain vigilant by monitoring national, regional, and local (intelligence). We work and plan with our national, state, and local state partners and deploy assets and personnel as needed.

"We stay committed to maintaining the Delaware State Police’s mission statement of enhancing the quality of life for all Delaware citizens and visitors by providing professional, competent and compassionate law enforcement services."

Dover police have assisted in past security efforts in the Capitol area complex and will continue to coordinate efforts with law enforcement partners, spokesman Sgt. Mark Hoffman said.

Nick Siano is a digital producer with the USA TODAY NETWORK. Follow him on Twitter: @NickSiano_.