HOUSTON – Thousands of people will descend on Houston this week as the city plays host to Super Bowl LI.
About 73,000 people are expected to attend the NFL championship game Sunday evening at NRG Stadium, as the New England Patriots face the Atlanta Falcons.
Officials from the NFL, as well as local and federal agencies, discussed their security plans for the city as the Big Game approaches.
Chip Fulgram, of the Department of Homeland Security, said more than 41 federal agencies and 1,000 public safety officers are involved in the security operation during the event.
“Security is always our top priority, and we look to balance that with minimal inconvenience to the fans as they experience the event," Fulgram said.
Fulgram said fans also play a vital part in the safety plan, calling them their extra eyes and ears.
“I urge each of you to remember, if you see something, say something, and act by immediately reporting to local authorities,” Fulgram said.
Houston police Chief Art Acevedo said that so far there have been about 50 arrests related to events surrounding the Super Bowl. Nearly 40 of those arrests were connected to prostitution.
“That includes people from over half a dozen states,” Acevedo said. “Some are here for the Super Bowl … Some are not.”
Acevedo said three woman have been found to have been victims of human trafficking.
The chief also said that six people have been arrested for trademark violations, leading to the recovery of 10,000 counterfeit items worth more than $500,000.
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