Metro News Release
For immediate release: June 25, 2009
Metro Transit Police arrest 27 for robberies
Police offer riders crime prevention tips
The Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) has arrested 27 robbery suspects in less than two months.
To address a rising rate of robberies, MTPD established a special robbery detail in May. The officers assigned to the robbery detail work in conjunction with officers on regular patrol throughout the Metro system. Through the analysis of crime trends throughout the Metro system and the region, the specialized unit has effectively targeted specific locations for crime, which resulted in the high rate of arrests.
“We started the detail to tackle the rising rate of robberies. We are extremely proud of the work of our robbery detail and will continue our efforts to keep Metro riders safe,” said MTPD Chief Michael Taborn. “We also will continue to reach out to and educate our patrons about how to protect themselves and their belongings.”
While crime remains low in the Metro system, the transit system has seen an increase in robberies. In 2008, there were 581 robberies reported, up from 445 reported robberies in 2007. Through May 31, there have been 313 reported robberies.
“The types of robberies we’re seeing now are crimes of opportunity. Thieves spot riders who are listening to music, checking emails, talking on cell phones or otherwise distracted. They’re snatching iPods, cell phones and other small electronics right out of the hands of unassuming riders,” Taborn said. “Remaining aware and keeping your electronics safely tucked away in a pocket or purse will decrease the chances of becoming a victim.”
MTPD also has with partnered local police departments to address crimes that occur near Metro property. In Prince George’s County, for example, several police agencies, including Metro Transit, conduct multi-agency patrols. The uniformed officers jointly patrol Metrorail stations and surrounding areas to increase safety and raise visibility of the multiple agencies working together to address area residents’ concerns.
MTPD offers crime prevention information online at http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/transit_police/crime_prev.cfm. MPTD emphasizes the importance of remaining aware and alert at all times, and protecting personal belongings such as phones, music players, purse and wallets while traveling on Metro and offers the following tips:
• Always be alert of your surroundings and the people around you.
• Carry electronic devices in a pocket or a place where it is not easily seen or easy to reach.
• Keep the volume of your music player at a low to moderate level so that you can hear what’s going on around you.
• Change the color of your ear piece so that it does not readily suggest you carry an expensive electronic device.
• Keep handbags close to the body.
• Carry wallets inside a coat pocket or front pants pocket.
• Report any suspicious activity to a Metro employee or call the Metro Transit Police at 202-962-2121.
Media contact for this news release: Cathy Asato or Lisa Farbstein at 202-962-1051.
News release issued at 12:51 pm, June 25, 2009.