The Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) announced on Thursday, April 28 that it has introduced new community policing and safety initiatives to increase police visibility on buses, trains, and in stations to curb crime.
“While crime is a community and regional concern, customers should feel safe on Metro, and that means using every tool at our disposal including investing in the community and partnering with local resources for essential services,” Metro General Manager Paul Wiedefeld said in a statement. “In addition, MTPD is strategically targeting enforcement efforts in areas where crime has increased.”
As part of the changes, the Department focuses on identifying the underlying issues that may lead to crime. It has developed a three-pillar approach to investments in the community: education, outreach and enforcement.
A new Community Services Bureau has been established under MTPD, which will start partnerships with neighborhood groups, schools, and mental health advocates.
In addition, Metro riders will be able to automatically add MTPD’s text-tip number (696873) to their cell phones by simply scanning a QR code on trains and buses, as well as at stations.
“Our customers provide additional eyes and ears throughout the system, and we encourage them to be alert and contact MTPD if they see anything suspicious,” MTPD Chief Michael Anzallo said. “We also have thousands of cameras on buses, trains and in stations that provide a valuable tool to identify and arrest anyone who commits a crime on Metro.”
Metro is also planning to launch a new anti-harassment public awareness campaign in the coming weeks.