AUSTIN, TX — Riders on CapMetro’s buses, trains, and stations will now see a new layer of safety personnel in action: the Transit Police. Rolled out beginning today, this team marks the final piece in a three-pronged public safety initiative aimed at strengthening ride security throughout the city.
New Transit Police: Who They Are and What They Do
The newly established Transit Police Department, created in 2021 and certified by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement in July 2024, brings law enforcement onto the system for the first time. A full team—consisting of a Police Chief, Assistant Chief, a captain, two sergeants, and nine officers—will begin patrolling key routes starting Jun 16, 2025.
These Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE)‑certified officers are trained in crisis intervention, fair and impartial policing, and community-centered response. They carry full policing authority: making arrests, executing warrants, and issuing citations. Officers will coordinate with local agencies (police, fire, EMS) when more assistance is needed .
Initially, five to seven officers will be deployed in areas with high transit usage, with presence expected to grow in phases.
Complementary Safety Teams in Action
CapMetro’s upgraded public safety model is a coordinated effort between three distinct teams:
-
Public Safety Ambassadors: More than 20 trained personnel with customer-service roles who help with directions, lost items, and non-emergency concerns like loitering or vandalism
-
Community Intervention Specialists: A trio of social workers providing on-the-spot support and referrals for riders facing homelessness, mental health, or other social challenges
When serious incidents occur—such as the recent fatal stabbing of a passenger—Transit Police are deployed alongside these teams to handle criminal matters.
A Proactive Response to Rider Concerns
The acceleration of this safety initiative follows a tragic incident in April, when a bus passenger fatally stabbed another. In response, staff and drivers emphasized the urgent need for more robust law enforcement presence.
Both CapMetro CEO Dottie Watkins and Police Chief Eric Robins said riders can expect to see a higher visibility of officers, especially in high-traffic and incident-prone locations.
What It Means for Riders
-
Enforcement Authority: Transit Police can arrest for criminal offenses and issue fare evasion citations (minimum $75 fine, up to $500 in court) .
-
Deterrence & Support: A stronger law enforcement presence aims to deter criminal behavior, support driver and passenger safety, and reduce response times to serious safety issues .
-
Collaborative Safety Services: With clear roles—customer assistance, social support, and policing—the integrated safety teams are designed to ensure incidents are handled effectively and empathetically.
What Riders Should Know
-
Transit Police begin patrols June 16.
-
For emergencies, dial 911; for non-emergencies, contact the CapMetro “GO Line” at 512-474-1200
-
Riders may be issued citations for fare evasion or other violations. Payment is due within 30 days to avoid court penalties.
-
To report concerns or request footage, use the CapMetro app or website.
