Metro GM, Transit Police Chief announce plan to increase patrols on trains, buses

WASHINGTON - Metro's General Manager and Transit Police Chief have announced new plans to keep Metro riders safe following a series of violent attacks.

General Manager Paul Wiedefeld and Chief Ron Pavlik say they plan to increase patrols onboard buses, trains and within Metrorail stations, which will result in sharp increases in the number of officers on patrol at certain times of day and provide "additional eyes and ears at key locations."

According to a press release, the following measures will be implemented immediately:

The announcement comes just days after two teens were arrested in connection with the shooting of a man at the Anacostia Metro station, and weeks after a string of violent attacks on Metro involving youths.

"Every Metro rider deserves to be able to travel freely without fear, and we will take all appropriate steps to reassure riders and respond to crime trends," said Chief Pavlik in a statement. "At the General Manager's direction, we will take immediate steps to increase patrols using our existing resources."