Oregon state leader calls on TriMet to increase safety after “disturbing” recent crimes

PORTLAND Ore. (KPTV) – TriMet security is prime of thoughts for state leaders and riders alike with current high-profile crimes shaking up the group.

Now an Oregon state chief is looking on TriMet to extend safety measures and to take action shortly.

Police and TriMet stated current crimes have been “remoted” and “extraordinarily disturbing” and Consultant Travis Nelson (D-Portland) stated that’s what compelled him to make a public assertion on social media.

Many individuals who use TriMet stated the MAX is dependable and handy.

“That’s how I get across the metropolis. I do know it just like the again of my hand. I prefer it,” Matthew Morrison, a TriMet rider, stated.

“I journey the MAX to my class at Portland State,” Kenny Doan, a TriMet rider, stated.

SEE ALSO: Tina Kotek sworn in as governor, seems to be to unite Oregonians

However with any system, it isn’t with out its challenges. Rep. Nelson stated he expressed his considerations about security to TriMet over the summer season.

“Conversations I had with constituents about their considerations with driving the bus and the MAX and them feeling unsafe,” Rep. Nelson stated.

And after current high-profile crimes on TriMet platforms previously couple of weeks, he stated he felt compelled to voice his rising concern on social media.

“After I noticed the tales in regards to the man having his face chewed off and the three-year-old woman being pushed off the tracks, I actually felt compelled to tweet about it,” Rep. Nelson stated.

Rep. Nelson stated he desires to see mass transit thrive and stated he had a productive assembly with TriMet on Monday.

“Advised me they’re working diligently that they’ve truly gotten fairly a little bit of a price range enhance in order that they’ll enhance safety,” Rep. Nelson stated.

Riders stated in addition they hope to see adjustments quickly.

SEE ALSO: Sam Adams resigns as Wheeler’s Director of Strategic Improvements citing well being considerations

“I believe extra precise safety would most likely be higher and maintain individuals extra protected,” Toby Nishino, a TriMet rider, stated.

Rep. Nelson stated leaders are additionally making an attempt to do their half to handle different points past safety.

“Behavioral well being and psychological well being and dependancy and people are all points we’re going to be engaged on,” Rep. Nelson stated.

And folks stated after these current assaults, they’re extra vigilant.

“Pay attention to your environment and assist out the place you possibly can,” Morrison stated.

TriMet stated over the previous yr they’ve greater than doubled buyer security supervisors and security response group members to greater than 40 every. They stated they’ve additionally elevated the variety of transit safety officers to over 100, and plan to proceed rising safety groups this yr.

Copyright 2023 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.