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Metro to expand its weapons detection pilot program
Metro is trying out a weapons detection system at Union Station.
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Metro Los Angeles
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Topline:
L.A. Metro’s Board of Directors approved an expansion of a weapons detection pilot program that started last year as it aims to improve safety.
About the pilot: The weapons detection technology was tested at Union Station and the APU/Citrus College station from September to December 2024. Pillars were used to detect concealed weapons, while CCTV was used to assess whether these weapons were used to threaten anyone at the station. According to Metro, this pilot was conducted at no cost to the agency.
What’s new: The motion will expand the “pillar-style” weapons detection system to additional high-traffic stations for another 12 months, though the exact locations have not yet been announced. Metro has also been directed to test out weapons detection technology on at least two buses.
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The results so far: Metro Board Chair and L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn called the program — which determined that no weapons were brandished at the stations during the pilot — a success. Metro reported that most feedback it gathered was positive, with a small number of riders expressing concerns about being stopped for screenings. Some public commenters at Metro’s board meeting Thursday also criticized the “TSA-style” security.
Other initiatives: Metro is trying a few different tactics to improve systemwide public safety, including tap-to-exit systems, higher fare gates, and the possible formation of its own security agency. Metro, which just expanded tap-to-exit to Union Station, is in the middle of expanding the program to all end-of-line stations by the end of 2025.
The context: Improving public safety has become a priority for Metro after reports of rising crime on the system. The agency found that reports of violent crime increased by 16% between March and April 2024.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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