Fact Check: Law Enforcement is Working with the Texas Department of Public Safety to Address the Credible Threat Made Against Lawmakers
What We Know
On a recent Saturday, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issued a warning regarding a "credible threat" directed at state lawmakers who were scheduled to attend a protest known as "No Kings" at the Texas Capitol. According to reports, the DPS communicated to lawmakers that they were "working with our law enforcement partners and are leveraging all available resources to address this threat" (CBS News, source-1). The Capitol and its grounds were evacuated around 1 p.m. as a precautionary measure, and the area remained closed temporarily (News 4 San Antonio, source-2).
The bulletin from the DPS also referenced recent violent incidents involving lawmakers in Minnesota, highlighting concerns about potential copycat actions (KXAN, source-4). This context underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating the threat against Texas lawmakers.
Analysis
The claim that law enforcement is collaborating with the Texas DPS to address a credible threat against lawmakers is supported by multiple reliable sources. The DPS's own statements, as reported by various news outlets, confirm that they are actively involved in managing the situation and ensuring the safety of the lawmakers (Yahoo News, source-5).
The sources used in this fact-check, including CBS News, News 4 San Antonio, and KXAN, are reputable news organizations known for their journalistic integrity. They provide corroborating information that aligns with the DPS's announcements, thus enhancing the credibility of the claim. Additionally, the mention of recent violent incidents involving lawmakers in Minnesota adds context to the situation, indicating that law enforcement's heightened alertness is not unfounded.
However, it is important to note that while the threat is described as "credible," the specifics of the threat have not been disclosed publicly, which may lead to varying interpretations of its severity. Nonetheless, the proactive measures taken by law enforcement, including the evacuation of the Capitol, indicate a serious response to the threat.
Conclusion
Verdict: True. The evidence clearly supports the claim that law enforcement is working with the Texas Department of Public Safety to address a credible threat made against lawmakers. The DPS's statements and the evacuation of the Capitol serve as direct actions taken in response to this threat, confirming the collaboration between law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of state legislators.
Sources
- Texas DPS warns state lawmakers of "credible threat" at "No Kings" protest (CBS News)
- Texas Capitol evacuated due to credible threat against lawmakers (News 4 San Antonio)
- Texas Cops Identify ‘Credible Threat’ Against Lawmakers At Capitol Amidst Protests (MSN)
- DPS: Texas Capitol evacuated after “credible” threat to state legislators planning to attend protest (KXAN)
- Texas DPS alerts to 'credible threat' against state legislators (Yahoo News)
- Texas DPS warns state lawmakers of 'credible threats' after Minnesota shootings (Texas Standard)
- Texas Capitol evacuated after 'credible threat' against lawmakers (Fox 26 Houston)
- Texas DPS warns state lawmakers of “credible threats” (Yahoo News)
