New RTD Security Initiative Provides Additional Patrols at Hot Spots

Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) launched a new safety initiative to increase officer presence and provide additional customer support across the transit system. The initiative uses data to identify security hot spots and then deploys transit police officers to conduct patrols. Security data is reviewed regularly and adjusted to respond to needs.

“By focusing on hot spots, riding key routes, and responding rapidly to priority calls, the team helps disrupt illegal activity and improve the safety of operators and customers,” said Commander Jonathan Holloway.

In addition to increasing patrols in high-incident areas, the agency is:

• Increasing patrols during peak ridership times and high-volume events
• Supporting local partner law enforcement agencies
• Ramping up efforts to conduct fare checks and educating customers about fare options
• Sharing information about RTD’s customer code of conduct
• Continuing to provide face-to-face customer support using trained RTD employee volunteers

RTD reports that, over the last year, criminal activity has decreased. Most customers use transit without incident—the agency receives approximately one security-related report for every 2,000 boardings.