Santa Monica Playing It Safe

Police received a call last month from a citizen who had taken photos of "Middle Eastern individuals" as they shot video of the Santa Monica Pier and surrounding area in a manner that authorities said was "inconsistent with tourist documentary."

In a press release, Butts said he wanted "to assure residents, business owners and visitors that the Police Department is increasing security as a preemptive measure against any potential terrorism threats or other security breaches."

Law enforcement sources said the individuals in question were also reported to have filmed around the Vincent Thomas Bridge, linking Los Angeles and Long Beach, and the Huntington Beach Pier.

But FBI officials have moved to clarify the seriousness of the situation. On Thursday, FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said the agency looked into the situation after the individuals filmed the Vincent Thomas Bridge and determined at that time that they didn't pose a threat.

On Friday, another FBI spokeswoman, Cathy Viray, added: "The FBI looked into the matter, and with the information at the time, it was deemed not a threat. We are working jointly with Santa Monica [police] to look into the matter."

Other law enforcement agencies have yet to follow Santa Monica's lead and issue public warnings. Huntington Beach Police Lt. Dave Bunetta said his agency has no information that suggests an actual terrorist threat.

Butts informed the Santa Monica City Council about the filming at a closed session meeting Tuesday -- the same day he asked for surveillance cameras, additional patrols and bomb-sniffing dogs around the pier area and the Third Street Promenade to boost security "as a preemptive measure against any potential terrorism threats or other security breaches."

The city is expected to spend about $2 million for these measures, according to City Council members.

During the meeting, Butts showed the City Council the photos of the men videotaping the pier.

Several council members said Friday that they backed the way Butts handled the situation, saying it made sense to beef up security. They also expressed support for Butts' plan to place cameras at the pier and other popular public places.