BEAUMONT, Texas — Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Department of Public Safety on Tuesday to increase security around places of worship in response to rising violent attacks against "people and places of faith" nationwide, according to a news release from the governor's office.

The enhanced security operation will deploy Texas Highway Patrol troopers, Criminal Investigations Division special agents and Texas Rangers to protect churches, synagogues and faith-based organizations across the state. DPS' Homeland Security Division will support the effort by identifying threats and working to prevent attacks before they occur, according to the news release.

"Places of worship are sacred," Abbott said in the release. "We will marshal all resources necessary to safeguard our places of faith."

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