Security at the Oscars will be even tighter this year amid war with Iran, LAPD sources say
HOLLYWOOD (KABC) -- Just days away from the Oscars, security for the event is the tightest it's ever been amid the ongoing war with Iran.
The area around Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue is blocked off as work continues to set up the red carpet area outside the Dolby Theater. Guards and crews are on high alert.
"It's been gated since we got here. The gate is pretty tall. I haven't seen anybody even trying to get in," said Adam Scherr, of Iowa.
Security is always tight at the Oscars, but sources with the Los Angeles Police Department tell ABC News News this year will be tighter than ever with the war in Iran and threats of possible retaliation.
Commander Randy Goddard, LAPD'S incident commander for the Oscars, says they've been preparing for the Oscars for months. It's an event with some 3,500 guests, in addition to all of those working in and around the venue.
Some of the visible security resources include K-rails and fencing along Hollywood Boulevard.
Goddard says they're coordinating with federal agencies like the FBI, as well as intelligence partners and the local fire department. He also stressed there are specialized resources behind the scenes, adding that while there's no intelligence to suggest Los Angeles or the Oscars are a target, when it comes to possible drone threats from Iran, it doesn't mean they don't prepare.
"We've planned for other things that we maybe haven't seen in prior years, but we have resources that will be on scene to address those unique circumstances that may occur so that they can be addressed quickly and prevent anything from growing out of control," Goddard said.
Some visitors say they've already noticed a change.
"We did see an increase in security. I don't think we went more than 20 feet without seeing someone who looked very official and here for security purposes," said Jennifer Gibula, of Minnesota.
Executive producers for the Oscars say the LAPD and FBI are working closely - everyone focused on one main mission.
"We want everyone that is coming to the show, that is witnessing the show, that is even a fan of the show, when they're standing outside the barricades - we want everybody to feel safe and protected," said Raj Kapoor, Oscars executive producer and showrunner.
