Security and terrorism expert Paul Viollis joins the show to discuss a terror attack in New Orleans on New Year’s morning. Viollis criticized the handling and reporting of the incident, describing it as “sloppy” and inconsiderate to the public. He emphasized that conflicting reports increased public anxiety and stress.
Viollis highlighted the failure to secure the event perimeter, allowing a vehicle to be used as a weapon. He stressed that such breaches are unacceptable, especially post-9/11, and should have been preventable with proper security measures like Jersey barriers.
The attack occurred at 3:15 AM, a time when many had already left the area, potentially reducing casualties. Viollis noted the luck involved in the timing, as a denser crowd earlier could have led to greater devastation.
Further complicating the situation, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found on Bourbon Street, and other devices were reported in different locations. Viollis expressed confidence that the FBI would find accomplices, citing distractions like fires set before the attack and the use of social media for planning and recruitment.
Viollis also discussed the broader implications, noting that New Orleans, as a global city, is a prime target for terrorists. He questioned whether the city’s management had adequately requested or implemented necessary security measures, such as perimeter barriers and additional staff.
The interview underscored the need for better security protocols and the importance of learning from past incidents to prevent future attacks. Viollis’s insights highlighted the ongoing challenges in protecting public events from terrorist threats.