Deputies in King County have been urged to carry their service weapon while off duty along with extra magazines.
Sheriff John Urquhart sent an email to officers Tuesday saying the greatest threat in the county, which includes Seattle, is a homegrown terrorist who supports ISIL. That group is responsible for the terrorist attacks in Paris that killed more than 120 people and injured more than 350 others.
"As they have in the past, ISIL released a video on Saturday, urging attacks anywhere, saying there are 'weapons and cars available and targets ready to be hit,'" Urquhart wrote. "I believe this is the biggest threat to our area," he said.
KIRO 7 reporter Amy Clancy will have a live report on the Sheriff's e-mail on KIRO 7 News from 5-6:30 -- click here to watch live.
Initially after the attack the FBI said there was no specific threat to Seattle area. But in previous years authorities have identified Washington State Ferries as potential targets for other terrorist groups.
"Of course we should all stay vigilant and 'if you see something, say something,'" Urquhart wrote. "But after Paris, that doesn't seem enough. Therefore my request."
He then asked deputies to stay armed while off duty.
"With all that is going in the world, it is more important than ever to have the means to protect your family, the public, and yourself," Urquhart wrote. The text of the e-mail is below.
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