Chicago police increasing patrols in Boystown in wake of Orlando nightclub massacre

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Police Department announced that it is increasing security in the 19th Police District, which includes Lakeview, Lincoln Park and Boystown, in the wake of the massacre at a gay club in Orlando in which 50 people were killed Sunday.

"Individuals can also expect to see increased police visibility today at special events throughout the city and along the lakefront," said Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi. "Officers will also pay special attention to CTA transportation hubs and be conducting increased traffic and safety enforcement downtown and on heavily traveled areas."

In Santa Monica, Calif., on Sunday, a suspect was taken into custody with assault weapons. The suspect told authorities he was there for the Los Angeles Pride festival.

"Most of the gay clubs, including ours, have at least double the security of other clubs because we know we are the objects of hatred," said Art Johnson, co-owner of Sidetrack, one of Boystown's largest nightclubs.

Johnson said he is grateful for a stepped up police presence in the neighborhood.

Chicago police said there is no specific intelligence indicating a threat to the Chicago LGBTQ community. Chicago's Gay Pride Parade takes place in Lakeview in two weeks.