Authorities "Disrupt" Credible Threat Against Pope Francis
By Mark Abrams
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Pope Francis will be arriving in Philadelphia and already there is word that government officials have neutralized one credible threat against the pope.
That disclosure came on Sunday from Texas Congressman Mike McCaul, who is also the Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee.
On ABC's "This Week" program, McCaul acknowledged he received a classified briefing from the Secret Service on the papal visit.
"We have disrupted one particular case," he said. "But as that case approaches, I think we'll all be very vigilant to protect him as he comes into the United States."
McCaul would not disclose the nature of the threat or whether it involved Philadelphia, the pope's final stop on his trip.
The congressman also said the Secret Service is especially concerned about lone-wolf attacks.
He said the Secret Service is trying to let the Pope Francis be the pope, but there are worries.
"He's a very passionate man," McCaul said. "He likes to get out with the people, and with that comes a large security risk."
Pope Francis arrives in Washington D.C. on September 22 after a stop in Cuba. He'll arrive in Philadelphia on Saturday, September 26 for a two-day stay.
Security fences already are going up along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway where the pope will take part in events throughout the weekend, including an open air Mass on Sunday, September 27.
Local officials aren't commenting on the security threats, but say they are prepared and working to protect him, as well as the crowds coming to see him.