For Immediate Release:
June 30, 2009

Media Contact:
John Labriola
jlabr@miamidade.gov
786-469-5420



Undercover police details help keep Transit system safe


(Miami-Dade County, FL) -- 
Next time you're aboard a Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) Metrorail train or bus, consider glancing over at the person sitting next to you. You just might be looking at an undercover police officer.

A would-be robber found that out the hard way when he announced a "stick-up" after boarding a Metrorail train on the evening of June 16. Four plainclothes Miami-Dade police officers immediately leapt into action and arrested the suspect, much to the relief of passengers.

The officers were part of Miami-Dade Transit's roving police security details, who provide an extra layer of safety in addition to MDT's contracted security firm. Miami-Dade Transit's Office of Safety and Security annually funds patrols of both uniformed and plainclothes officers throughout the transit system. The police department also conducts random details of both trains and buses on its own.

"Miami-Dade Transit works very closely with the law enforcement community in protecting the riding public," MDT Director Harpal Kapoor said. "This has proven very successful in the apprehension of criminals and vandals."

The police details are only one example of how MDT is committed to keeping the transit system safe for passengers. MDT also conducts periodic "Transit Shield" operations at Metrorail stations and bus terminals. These operations -- which involve the participation of County and City of Miami police as well as the Transportation Security Administration, federal air marshals and the Regional Domestic Security Task Force -- are designed to provide a visible security presence on the transit system.

MDT asks passengers to help ensure a safe transit system for all by reporting anything unusual. Customers should call 305 375-2700 to contact an MDT security officer or supervisor while on the transit system. In the event of an emergency, passengers should call 911.


 

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MIAMI-DADE TRANSIT
Overtown Transit Village
701 NW 1st Court, 17th Floor Miami, FL 33136
786-469-5420
Residents South of SW 216 St: 305-891-3131