Boing Boing pointed out this bit of Chicago Police ridiculousness.
Each year, the Winter Holiday Season tends to spur larger crowds and increased traffic throughout the City. As it pertains to shop-ping districts, public transportation routes, and all other places of public assembly, the increased crowds become a matter of Home-land Security concern. During this holiday period, as a matter of public safety, we ask that all members of the general public heighten their awareness regarding any and all suspicious activity that may be an indicator of a threat to public safety. It is impor-tant to immediately report any or all of the below suspect activi-ties.
• Physical Surveillance (note taking, binocular use, cameras, video, maps)
• Attempts to gain sensitive information regarding key facilities
• Attempts to penetrate or test physical security / response procedures
• Attempts to improperly acquire explosives, weapons, ammunition, dangerous chemicals, etc.
• Suspicious or improper attempts to acquire official vehicles, uniforms, badges or access devices
• Presence of individuals who do not appear to belong in workplaces, business establishments, or near key facilities
• Mapping out routes, playing out scenarios, monitoring key facilities, timing traffic lights
• Stockpiling suspicious materials or abandoning potential containers for explosives (e.g., vehicles, suitcases, etc)
• Suspicious reporting of lost or stolen identification
See Something, Say Something CALL 911
[From See Something, Say Something CALL 911 ]
(Original PDF here)
So, in other words, if you see anyone lost, looking at their map, or taking photos, call 911, because anyone who is a tourist is suspect. Err, ok, doesn't seem like the greatest use of police resources. I bet most police on the street think this instruction is a big waste of everyone's time.
