Cleveland Police Release Tipline Ahead of RNC

by Michelle Faust

Cleveland police announced a new tip line ahead of the coming Republican National Convention—now 10 days away.

Chief Williams says police are ready for the convention, but they want residents to be aware of suspicious activity.

"Any time large numbers gather anywhere in our city the antenna goes off for officers and we are extra vigilant. We're just asking the people of the city and the people in northeast Ohio to be extra vigilant as we go forward in the next 2 or 3 weeks," says Williams.

Police recently arrested an Emirati businessman in traditional clothes at an Avon hotel, following a 911 call alleging the man was pledging support to ISIS. Chief Williams says his department has learned from the incident.

"We'd rather err on the side of caution and at least get the information and at least make some kind of contact or take a look at all of what the situation is rather than not," he says.

Ahead of the announcement, Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and Police Chief Calvin Williams expressed condolences for the lives lost in the shooting deaths of 5 police officers in Dallas yesterday.

Police say the tip line had been planned for the RNC before the Dallas shootings.

The number to call to report suspicious activity is 1-800-225-5324. Police advise to call 911 for emergencies.