DeLand increases security at public events following New Orleans attack
ORLANDO, Fla. - DeLand city officials say there was a larger-than-usual show of force at this year’s annual MLK march and festival.
What they're saying:
"After the events in New Orleans, the city commission discussed coming up with different security protocols," said Chris Graham, DeLand Community Information Manager.
This past New Year’s Day in New Orleans, a man drove a pickup truck through a crowded street, killing 14 people.

The city of DeLand has installed barricades that can be lifted from the ground for security use.
"So our team came together, we discussed certain scenarios, how we'd handle certain situations, really looking at the vulnerabilities of our events," Graham said.
City staff said the city's upcoming Me-Strong 5k, and the Mardi Gras dog parade would also have a high-security presence. At the MLK parade, police also marched with long guns.
Local perspective:
Dr. Andre Darby, the MLK parade coordinator, said there were about 25 officers keeping the peace.
"So even though it's a small town, a lot of events take place here. This is the first event of the year, so there's other events coming and we want to make sure that everyone is protected, no matter if it's a big city or small town," he said.
Deland officials said there weren't any written guidelines outlining the new protocols, but Graham said this may be the new normal for large city events, where you could never take too many precautions.
"Really, it's something we're continuing to work on, we talked about it today in our staff meeting," Graham said, "and what are the best ways we can protect our citizens, because that's the most important thing at the end of the day."
The Source: The information in this article comes from reporting done by FOX 35's Matt Trezza.