No public funds for new transit safety group

By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(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.