The article cites Deputy Police Chief Frank Fernandez , as saying: ?We want that shock. We want that awe?The operations will keep terrorists off guard.? Hopefully, this high-visibility security operation is being based upon sound intelligence, as the Miami area is a ?target rich? environment for a would-be terrorist.

In the Miami area, as in other jurisdictions, likely targets would be: cruise lines or air traffic, planned sporting events, significant city symbols or tourist attractions, major shopping centers, or government or hospital facilities. Also, like other major cities, there are too many potential targets to have continuous high-profile security operations on-going. The article quotes the President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, as saying: ?The Miami program is similar to those used for years during the holiday season to deter criminals at busy places such as shopping malls.? Clearly, that is used because shopping malls are where the bad guys attack their victims to steal their newly purchased gifts.