No public funds for new transit safety group
(The Center Square) – The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office says no public funds are being used for the agency’s new Regional Transit Task Force.
State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke announced the task force and said crime on public transportation is one of her office’s biggest priorities.
“The RTTF brings together local and federal law enforcement partners, prosecutors and transit experts to strengthen prosecutions,” Burke said.
Task force participants include the Chicago Police Department, Chicago Transit Authority, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, ATF, DEA, Metra and Pace.
CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen said collaboration across agencies and law enforcement is deeper than ever.
“What you are witnessing here today is an unprecedented level of commitment, resources and work focused entirely on the safety of the riding public,” Leerhsen said.
Burke’s office told The Center Square that participating agencies are contributing existing personnel and expertise to support the RTTF. The CCSAO Communications Department said no public funds would be used for the task force and there is no anticipated taxpayer impact.
Last December, the Federal Transit Administration said assaults against customers on CTA vehicles and property increased 150% in the last five years.
The FTA threatened to withhold up to $50 million from the CTA if it failed to enhance security.
Burke said the RTTF would hold its first meeting in the next week. She said all different kinds of crimes will be prosecuted in collaboration with local and federal law enforcement agencies.
“Our focus right now is making sure that those who present the biggest danger to the public are detained,” Burke said.
Burke said her office has heard the concerns of the riding public and is working to deter crime.
“We are upping the likelihood that someone will be caught, and we are upping the likelihood that someone will be punished,” Burke said.
Burke said, as of May 10, violent crime on public transportation is down 22% compared to the same time last year.
Partly Sunny then Slight Chance Showers And Thunderstorms
Latest News Stories
Beecher Village Board Appoints New Clerk, Approves Environmental Justice Committee Role
Vance’s tie-breaking vote tanks resolution restricting Venezuela military actions
Federal court upholds California congressional redistricting
Trump orders new mediation for New York rail contract dispute
U.S. House passes two more govt funding bills, sending to Senate
Governors seek delay on sharing cost of food stamp errors
Supreme Court ruling allows Bost to challenge Illinois election law
Illinois quick hits: Illinois auto insurance rates dropping
SCOTUS rules on warrantless searches, double convictions and election suits
WATCH: WA Democrats criticize reporter probes into potential daycare fraud
Title IX central to transgender sports cases, advocates say
WATCH: Legislator raises red flag over Illinois tax funds for group encouraging ICE protests
