Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Safety Security topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Transit police say crimes are down 55% as agency reviews two recent platform incidents
Summary
Transit police told commissioners February crime numbers are down 55% year to date, and described two assaults on trains; staff said an Emerson Park pedestrian strike is under state review and a separate Union Station removal that preceded a passenger death is the subject of an after-action review and enhanced training.
Captain Brad Kelling, head of the transit police bureau, reported that systemwide crime metrics are trending downward, saying that "year to date in the crimes against persons categories we are down 55%." He told commissioners that February included two assaults on trains — both involving security guards — and arrests were made.
Kelling outlined property‑crime examples from the month, including a recovered backpack and a stolen firearm that was later traced. He said the transit police continue extra foot and platform patrols, and identified frequent call locations as North Hanley, Rock Road/Plymouth and Lambert.
Commissioners pressed the department about public-safety staffing near new housing developments at North Hanley. Kelling said the University Crossing development would be patrolled by the Central County Precinct — part of county police — and that this additional patrol presence is separate from Metro transit police work on platforms. "That has nothing to do with our staffing here with the Bureau of Transit Police," he said, adding the changes will mean more officers around North Hanley rather than fewer.
The panel heard details about two recent safety incidents. Toby Roach described an Emerson Park grade‑crossing collision in which a passenger wearing earbuds walked into the train’s path and suffered nonfatal injuries; the incident will be reviewed by state safety oversight in Illinois and Missouri as part of the standard after‑action process. Roach said such reviews involve third‑party oversight and are used to determine corrective steps.
Commissioners were also briefed on a separate Union Station episode in which an individual removed from inside the faregates later died. Transit staff said the person verbally refused ambulance or 911 service; St. Louis Metropolitan Police reviewed the incident and found no evidence that guards caused harm. Captain Kelling said the agency will conduct an after‑action review and is enhancing training for staff who encounter people in crisis.
Kelling also discussed behavior‑focused efforts that aim to reduce nuisance complaints on trains. He described a "Writing Right" campaign that rewards riders who help others — for example, giving up a seat — with a small number of complimentary fares and supportive signage. Director Webb (public affairs) is creating signage to accompany the campaign.
The commission did not take formal action on security policy at the meeting; staff said they will return with findings from after‑action reviews and any recommended training changes.
