In response to a significant rise in crime rates aboard Minneapolis and St. Paul Metro Transit buses and trains, the transit agency’s police force is turning to social media to protect the community and enhance transparency.
With crime up by over 30% in the past year, Metro Transit Police have created accounts on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and X to provide real-time updates on major incidents and to showcase the department’s efforts in combating crime.
Recently, the Metro Transit Police launched its official accounts on these platforms, with Chief Ernest Morales III pledging to offer a glimpse into the daily operations of the department.
In his announcement, Morales discussed the importance of fostering open and honest conversations with the community.
“We are committed to communication and transparency,” Morales stated in a recent press release. “Our community needs to connect with us, and vice versa. That’s why Metro Transit Police is now on social media.”
The initiative comes amid growing concerns about the safety and security of Metro Transit services, which cover eight counties and 85 communities in the Twin Cities area.
In one disturbing incident in November last year, a man was stabbed to death at a bus stop. The killing occurred roughly 10 miles from downtown Minneapolis.
However, aside from protecting the community, the turn to social media also aims to shed a positive light on the work of transit police officers.
Department spokeswoman Nikki Muehlhausen noted the dedication of Metro Transit officers, whose work ranges from enforcing fare regulations to responding to emergencies such as crashes, assaults and shootings, often involving individuals with mental health or addiction issues or facing homelessness.
“While showcasing the commendable work of our officers, we also aim to garner the attention and respect they deserve,” Muehlhausen explained.
However, the social media presence is not solely intended for accolades. Metro Transit Police are committed to engaging in meaningful dialogue with the public and addressing concerns head-on.
According to transit police officials, the platform will serve as a tool for educating the community on the challenges faced by law enforcement while soliciting feedback and suggestions for improvement.
In addition to the social media initiative, Metro Transit is undergoing significant infrastructure changes to improve the overall transit experience and safety.
One such project is the $32 million reconstruction of Rice Street in St. Paul’s North End, where crews have begun removing trees to prepare for road construction this summer.
The project aims to transform the corridor into a more pedestrian and bike-friendly environment, with shared lanes and dedicated paths.
Metro Transit has also introduced the Transit Rider Investment Program (TRIP) to address safety concerns, particularly on light rail systems. TRIP personnel, trained to handle fare evasion and provide social services liaison, will allow sworn officers to focus on more serious public safety threats.
With targeted improvements in cleaning standards and the adoption of a revised rider code of conduct, Metro Transit aims to create a safer and more welcoming environment for passengers.
For the latest updates and information, Metro Transit Police can be followed on Facebook, Instagram (@metrotransitpd), and X (@MTPDmn).
