Increased Police Presence During Student Commute

Metro Transit Police are adding officers to trains during the hours when students commute in an effort "to reinforce messages about acceptable behavior, set expectations for students who ride Metro to and from school, and address concerns from riders about disruptive minors," according to a statement from Metro Transit Police Chief Michael A. Taborn.

Officers will patrol Metrorail stations, areas near schools, as well as trains and buses with large student populations to "encourage students to keep moving, discourage them from loitering and remind them about appropriate behavior while riding Metro," Taborn's statement said.

Officers will visit schools, and PTA meetings to speak with students, parents, and school officials about issues that may carry over into the neighboring areas and the Metro system after school.

Students will receive written warnings and may be arrested.

Metro has set up a special hotline for anyone who sees individuals under 18 acting disorderly. Riders may call 202-962-2118 to report disruptive behavior of minors.

-Yamiche Alcindo