Ocean County Takes Preemptive Measures in the wake of Threat Against American Shopping Malls

Long before Al-Shabab's weekend video threat against American shopping malls, Ocean County already had heightened security in place, according to Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy. 

"The local police departments are doing numerous activities individual to their respective areas," said Mastronardy.

He said the Sheriff's Department provides support resources and personnel to local police departments that request them, adding some systems are visible and many are not overt.

The collaborative effort for prevention and response has been coordinated with federal Homeland Security over a span of years, according to Mastronardy.

He is urging the public to do their part as well by remaining vigilant.

"Be observant and report anything to your local police department," he said.