Metro News Release

For immediate release: November 16, 2011

Metro Transit Police using innovative tactics to fight crime
New techniques pay off with numerous arrests

When a teenager tried to steal a bicycle parked outside of the Prince George’s Plaza station last night (Nov. 15), members of the Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) Crime Suppression Team immediately moved in and apprehended him.

What the young man did not know was that the bicycle belongs to the Metro Transit Police and officers in casual clothing were nearby, closely watching the bicycle and the person about to steal it.

MTPD is using innovative techniques, including decoy bicycles, to further reduce crime in the Metro system. The Crime Suppression Team targets bicycle thefts and snatch robberies, identifies suspects, and makes immediate arrests. Since the team began their efforts about a month ago, it has made dozens of arrests, stopping would-be bicycle thieves and robbery suspects trying to escape with victims’ electronic devices such as iPhones or cash. The team also has arrested individuals for simple assault, drug and weapons possession.

“We are employing new tactics to combat bike theft and theft of electronic devices, such as iPads and iPhones. The teams are doing a great job in addressing crime and keeping our customers safe,” said Metro Transit Police Chief Michael Taborn.

“During the holiday season we traditionally see an increase in robberies. While we’re taking steps to keep customers safe, we also need the public to do their part too,” Taborn said. “Remain aware of your surrounding and take steps to protect yourself and your property.”

MTPD emphasizes the importance of remaining aware and alert at all times, and protecting personal property while traveling throughout the Metro system, and offers the following tips:

• Remain alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Carry your electronic device in your front pocket or a place where it is not easily seen or in easy reach of others.
• Avoid using an electronic device near the train or bus doors. Many “snatch robberies” take place as the doors are closing.
• Avoid using an electronic device on platforms.
• If you must use an electronic device, protect it by holding it with both hands at all times.
• Change the color of your earphones. White or red wires can indicate that you're carrying expensive equipment.
• When parking at a Metro facility, take all valuables with you. Remember to remove your GPS and holder from the windshield.
• If parking a bike at a Metrorail station, use a high-quality lock that cannot be easily broken.

News release issued at 2:13 pm, November 16, 2011.