Three years removed from deadly attacks at the Boston Marathon, security continued to be a top priority at the annual tradition in Boston.
But Boston Police Commissioner William Evans says that he couldn’t have asked for a better response.
"We had no incidents, to tell you the truth, I don’t think we had one arrest, no citations, we asked everyone to help us out with the backpacks and be on best behavior, and I couldn’t ask for a better day," he said. "Speaking to my officers, we couldn’t have asked for a better crowd."
Officials checked bags at entrance points, while items such as backpacks, over-the-shoulder bags, and suitcases were banned. Spectators without bags were allowed to enter freely, but people carrying in bags had those items searched and tagged in the interest of safety.
Other banned items included coolers, glass containers, or anything that could hold more than a liter of liquid. Blankets, comforters, sleeping bags, or any costume material that covers the face or bulky costumes that extend from the body were also prohibited.
Police were out in force to ensure that runners and spectators are safe.
In Boston, more than 5,000 uniformed and plainclothes police officers are at multiple security checkpoints and are stationed along the marathon route.
Boston Police Commissioner William Evans originally planned to run this year’s Marathon, but following recent attacks in Europe, he decided to work the Marathon instead. Next year, he says he may try to run.
"We’ll see what happens," he said, "and I’m hoping that all the security that goes into (this event) will be a thing of the past."
But with all the security that went into the event, Evans says the crowds couldn’t have been better.
"Anyone listening who might have come, I just want to say thank you," he said."
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