Public transit crime drops 24%, MTS reports
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The smooth, quiet commute of the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Green Line is riding high, both literally and figuratively, as more riders discover the benefits of leaving their car at home and sailing above traffic off of the 8 freeway on elevated rails.
And MTS officials say things are only getting better.
“Really good news," said Mark Olson, director of marketing for MTS. "We've seen a 24% reduction in crime over the entire system from this time last year.”
These results come after 60% more code compliance officers were added to operations.
“We’ve added more officers to our bus enforcement team," said Olson. "We’ve added more officers to our bike team, which patrols our downtown areas to respond faster and be more agile near the downtown stations."
There has been nearly a 15% drop in crimes on the trolley and a 53% drop in crime on the MTS buses.
Security officers, along with cameras, have been helpful, but the secret weapon has been riders texting pictures and emergency concerns so officers can respond in real time. As confidence in MTS builds, more commuters means more eyeballs looking out for trouble.
