FBI Expects Violence at GOP Convention

Associated Press | August 19 2004

WASHINGTON (AP) -- FBI officials say they're expecting violent protests at the upcoming Republican National Convention in New York. But they say there's no word on a specific plot - and not yet enough evidence to move against a particular individual or group.

FBI counter-terror expert Gary Bald says the agency has been monitoring plans on the Internet - and that some protest sites link to pages listing Molotov cocktails and other "offensive weapons" to carry during protests. Concern over the upcoming convention comes amid heightened security across New York over fears that foreign terrorists might strike the city again. Bald also said the FBI doesn't monitor rallies - or people who attend rallies. But the bureau will open an investigation if they learn that protesters are planning to commit violent acts.