Reaction to Orlando terror attack and local impact

   LOS ANGELES (CNS) – Reaction from Southern California officials to the
deadliest gun attack in U.S. history came in today:
—
From Hussam Ayloush, executive director, Council on American Islamic
Relations:
“We condemn this senseless and horrific attack and offer our heartfelt
condolences to the families and loved ones of all those killed or injured.
“The Muslim community joins our fellow Americans in repudiating anyone
or any group that would claim to justify or excuse such an appalling act of
violence.”
—
From Rep. Adam Schiff, in an interview with top democrat on House Select
Committee on Intelligence, on CNN.
“What I have heard form the Department of Homeland Security, and from
(Orlando) police, is that he made a pledge of allegiance to ISIL, praying in a
foreign language … during the shooting. We know the shooting is during
Ramadan and the target is the target that is often the target of ISIS, the LGBT
community. The similarities are highly indicativeof an an ISIL-inspired attack,
whether this was ISIL-directed we don’t know (yet).”
—
From the Los Angeles county sheriff’s office:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families of
this horrific attack which occurred in Orlando early this morning.
“While there are no specific or credible threats received by law
enforcement for the greater Los Angeles area, our personnel maintain a
heightened state of situational awareness and remain vigilant in the protection
of our communities.
“Sheriff Jim McDonnell is communicating with our local, state and
federal partners.
“The Department’s Operation Center is open and actively managing events
surrounding the Gay Pride Parade and Festival in the city of West Hollywood.
Hundreds of uniformed deputies are on-duty to ensure the safety of all those
participating in this event.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we have enhanced our security presence
for the event and have tactical units at the ready to prevent and respond to
any circumstances.”
—
From Los Angeles city prosecutor Mike Feuer:
“As we celebrate the amazing progress that has been made for LGBTQ
rights … we are devastated by the horrific news from Orlando — many killed,
dozens injured, countless lives shattered in one of the deadliest mass
shootings in American history.
“Vehement homophobia and transphobia still exist, and while we continue
to raise our voices and march to change hearts, minds and laws, we must also
do a better job of keeping the 300 million guns in our country away from people
who should not have them. Across our country, it’s a matter of life and
death.”