New bus fuzz cause buzz
The transit cops in Portland have never had many friends. I believe the city police department has traditionally been in charge of it, which could explain the dismal public perception. But today I see that the county sheriff's office is taking it over.
The Transit Police Division is currently made up of officers from six law enforcement agencies in jurisdictions TriMet serves. As the command agency, MCSO will provide a captain to serve as TriMet Transit Chief of Police, as well as lieutenants, sergeants and deputies. Overall, the 7-year agreement will not exceed $82.5 million, or about $12 million a year, with TriMet reimbursing MCSO for salaries, overtime and equipment.
I used to feel safe on Tri-Met, but then again, I used to feel safe everywhere in Portland. That's no longer the case.
The pandemic knocked mass transit out of my life, and I doubt I'll ever go back. But for the sake of all those who have no choice, let's hope the changeover in command doesn't make things worse.
I have a friend who was assigned to Transit. He's as kind and decent a man as you might hope to find. I did a ride-along with him one day, and watched him give significant help to half a dozen homeless people, and take care of a few difficult situations with compassion and integrity. With all of the serious problems begging for timely resolution that Portland has within its law-enforcement ranks, it's worth remembering how difficult and wearing policing can be, and how valuable a resource a good cop is.
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