METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

D.C. Metro transit police cut theft numbers

Plain clothes officers used decoy bicycles and electronic devices to make immediate arrests as thefts and robberies occurred on the transit system. In November, officers recorded 47 arrests for snatch robberies and bicycle theft and made separate arrests for assault, drug and weapons possession.

December 8, 2011
2 min to read


With nearly 50 arrests in November, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) Transit Police Department’s new Crime Suppression Teams are making an impact, according to the agency.

The Crime Suppression Team program was launched in late October with team members targeting bicycle thefts and snatch robberies. Using decoy bicycles and electronic devices, plain clothes officers make immediate arrests as thefts and robberies occur on the Metro system.

In November, the Crime Suppression Team recorded 47 arrests for snatch robberies and bicycle theft. In addition, team members have made separate arrests for assault, drug and weapons possession.

“During the holiday season we traditionally see an increase in robberies. Our Crime Suppression Team has been doing a great job in addressing robberies and keeping our customers safe,” said Metro Transit Police Chief Michael Taborn. “But we need our customers to do their part too. High-end electronics like smart phones and tablets are attractive to thieves. Don’t make it easy for thieves to take them out of your hands.”

Chief Taborn emphasized the importance of remaining aware and alert at all times, and keeping electronic devices and other valuables where they are not easily seen or reached. Customers who are using their electronic devices also are encouraged to avoid sitting or standing near train or bus doors as thieves often snatch a victim’s property and exit the train or bus as the doors are closing.

More Bus

A photo of an Amtrak train with a logo
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 24, 2026

Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More

From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.

Read More →
LA Metro at State of the Agency event.
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 23, 2026

LA Metro Marks Banner Year, Sets Ambitious Goals for New Fiscal Year

Incoming LA Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joined outgoing Board Chair Fernando Dutra and LA Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins to review accomplishments from fiscal year 2026, which included the opening of new rail extensions, advancement of major transit projects, expanded safety programs, and new rider amenities.

Read More →
Nathaniel P. Ford Sr., named President/CEO at DART
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 22, 2026

DART Taps Nathaniel P. Ford Sr. as Next President/CEO

Since 2012, Ford has served as the CEO of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Maintenance Leadership for a Changing Industry
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 22, 2026

AC Transit’s Cecil Blandon on Building the Next Generation of Transit Maintenance Leaders

The agency’s maintenance chief discusses leadership, workforce development, zero-emission technology, and preparing technicians for the future of public transportation.

Read More →
TechnologyJuly 20, 2026

Building the Next Generation of Transit Technology

In this edition of METROspectives, Luminator CEO Magnus Friberg discusses the company's transformation, the growing role of AI and software, and what's next for transit technology.

Read More →
Crowd waiting for LA Metro bus
Managementby Staff and News ReportsJuly 15, 2026

June LA Metro Ridership Surges 2 Million Year Over Year

Total June ridership increased for both weekdays and weekends. Weekday ridership was 953,820, which grew 8.4% from June 2025; Saturdays increased nearly 13% year-over-year to 708,826; and Sundays increased 7.7% to 611,534 from June 2025, according to LA Metro. 

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Pierce Transit Measure Heads to November Ballot
Managementby StaffJuly 14, 2026

Washington's Pierce Transit Board Sends Transit Funding Measure to November Ballot

With the adoption of Resolution 2026-006, the measure moves to the Pierce County Auditor, giving voters in the Pierce Transit service area the decision on whether to fund an expansion of local transit service within the agency’s service area.

Read More →
MTA, State and City Leadership Unveil Plan to Build the Fastest, Best Bus System in NYC History
Busby Staff and News ReportsJuly 9, 2026

New York Unveils Sweeping Plan to Modernize City Bus Service

Next Stop: Fast Buses, Better Service identifies 50 priority bus corridors for improvements across the five boroughs and launches the City’s next generation of rapid bus service along five key routes.

Read More →
STV Advances CTDOT Fleet Electrification
Busby Staff and News ReportsJuly 8, 2026

CTDOT Taps STV for Electric Bus Facility Design

The firm will work with CTDOT and RVT to define the facility layout, operational requirements, and long-term flexibility for RVT’s growing electric fleet.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Blue and white graphic with a professional portrait of Nathaniel P. Ford Sr.

Ford to Leave JTA After More Than 10 Years as CEO

He plans to continue his work advancing innovative mobility solutions to improve the quality of life in communities across the nation. He did not announce specific plans.

Read More →