Consultant finds transit police are on wrong track
The Metro Transit police department has a "lack of accountability at all levels," "confusion and negative perceptions at all levels," and does not appear to have anyone in charge of technology, according to a new report from the Upper Midwest Community Policing Institute.
The Star Tribune obtained the report and first reported the news on its web site late Saturday.
Former St. Paul police chief and state senator John Harrington recently took over control of the Metro Transit police for and told the paper that the report will serve as a "blueprint for the future."
According to it's site:
Metro Transit has its own licensed police force committed to the safety of its customers and employees, serving eight counties and 85 cities in the region. There are approximately 69 full-time officers, 55 part-time officers, four community service officers and five administrative staff dedicated to one thing: public safety on and near our transit system. Transit Police officers ride buses and trains as well as patrol along bus routes, Hiawatha light rail and the Northstar Line. Sometimes officers patrol out of uniform – one could be on your next bus. Transit Police officers also inspect fares on Hiawatha and Northstar trains.
