Officials talk security ahead of Super Bowl 51

Pooja Lodhia Image
Wednesday, February 1, 2017
Officials talk security ahead of Super Bowl 51
Local, state and federal officials are taking many steps to keep Houstonians safe during Super Bowl week, some of which you might not even realize are happening.

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- When celebrities, athletes, and more come to town, so do the crooks.

Since Friday, Houston Police have made several arrests at Super Bowl events. Most of them have been for minor crimes, but there have also been 38 prostitution-related arrests.

"We've also been able to rescue three women who were trafficked against their will, one being as young as 19 years of age," explained HPD Chief Art Acevedo.

PHOTOS: List of Houston Super Bowl performers, attractions

Houston Police are working with dozens of local and federal agencies to increase security around the Super Bowl.

The NFL has also brought in 4,000 security guards to help form a three-mile security perimeter around events.

Officials, however, say it's the unsanctioned events that worry them the most.

"Social media is so prevalent now, so now it's real easy for these pop-up parties to pop up or celebrity sightings that draw big crowds," said Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

SEE ALSO: Low-flying helicopter seen across Houston