Full Breakdown
Safety Concerns on the Los Angeles Metro: A Deep Dive
3/22/2026, 12:48:31 AM
Rising Crime Rates and Commuter Experiences
Crime on the Los Angeles Metro has surged by 58% since 2019, with reported incidents increasing from 2,747 to 4,354 by September 2025, according to Metro data. Despite the allocation of $192 million towards safety measures, the rise in crime has persisted, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. In 2025, there were 286 aggravated assaults on buses and rail lines, a 38% increase from 2017. Commuters have reported alarming incidents, including open drug use, harassment, and violence. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes, such as a woman brandishing a knife on a train and individuals engaging in drug deals openly.
Commuter Perspectives on Safety
Riders have expressed deep concerns about their safety while using the Metro. Elissa Mardiney noted that while many individuals are suffering, it does not justify the unsafe conditions on the trains. Sam Hill, a daily user reliant on public transport, recounted a frightening experience where a man under the influence of drugs threatened her family with a knife. The dangers are not merely theoretical; violent crimes against individuals have become a significant threat, with 159 such crimes recorded in September 2025 alone, marking a 20% increase from the previous month.
Metro's Response to Safety Issues
In response to the escalating crime rates, the Los Angeles Metro has initiated a comprehensive overhaul of its safety protocols. This includes the establishment of a Transit Community Public Safety Department, which aims to replace external policing agencies with an in-house force by 2029. The Metro Board approved this restructuring in June 2024, with a significant budget dedicated to enhancing security. However, critics argue that the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain, as many homeless individuals contacted by outreach teams have declined offered services.
Official Statements and Future Plans
Metro officials have acknowledged the importance of addressing public safety, stating, “Nothing Metro is working on is more important than addressing public safety on our system.” They claim to be making tangible improvements to attract new riders and foster a safer transit culture. Additionally, a Metro spokeswoman highlighted an 8% decrease in violent crime in the first 11 months of 2025 compared to the previous year, framing it as a positive development.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the agency's claims of progress, many riders remain skeptical. The inability to enforce TAP card violations has been criticized as a loss of a crucial tool for maintaining order and safety. Commuters continue to report feeling unsafe, with many incidents of violence and drug use persisting on the Metro.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While Metro officials tout improvements in safety, the experiences of commuters suggest a different reality. The discrepancy between reported crime statistics and personal accounts raises questions about the effectiveness of current safety measures and the true state of security on the Metro.
Verbatim Quotes
“Unfortunately, that isn’t unusual,” — Sam Hill, Metro Rider
“There was a guy clearly on drugs swinging a knife at my stepfather,” — Sam Hill, Metro Rider
“Nothing Metro is working on is more important than addressing public safety on our system,” — Metro Officials
“You can feel the energy change when someone boards in crisis.” — Malcolm Caminero, USC Journalism Student
