'Violent incidents' prompt increased security for Texas legislative staff: DPS

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- The Texas Department of Public Safety said it increased security measures for legislative staff at the Texas Capitol, citing the shooting of Charlie Kirk in Utah and other "violent incidents."

"We have also observed an increase in violent rhetoric directed toward political groups on various social media platforms, further raising concerns for the safety of public officials and their staff," a memo from DPS said.

This all comes after the fatal shooting of conservative personality Charlie Kirk during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. Earlier that day, three students were also critically injured in a shooting at a high school in Evergreen Colorado, near the Denver metro area, according to The Associated Press.

DPS has recommended the following actions in its memo for legislative staff:

• Limit social media exposure: DPS said staff should "minimize personal and professional presence online," when it comes to posts that "disclose schedules, event details, or locations."
• Evaluate public events: DPS reiterated to report "any threats, unusual behaviors, or suspicious circumstances" to local law enforcement or iWatch Texas.

"DPS remains committed to supporting the safety and security of all elected officials, their staff, and the public," the memo said.

Last month, DPS had to evacuate the Capitol grounds after a social media threat calling on others to go to the building to "take action" against lawmakers who tried to leave the building. The evacuated happened just minutes before a planned protest was scheduled to start outside the House Chamber.