LA Metro Mobilizes Safety Reforms Amid Crime Surge
LA Metro crime up 58% since 2019 despite $192M safety investment, violent assaults rise
LA Metro Crime Surges 58% Despite Safety Spending
Los Angeles Metro riders face a growing safety crisis as crime on the transit system has surged 58% since 2019, rising from 2,747 incidents to 4,354 by September 2025. The spike comes despite $192 million invested in safety measures over recent years. Aggravated assaults increased 38% from 207 in 2017 to 286 in 2025, with violent crimes against people remaining the most serious threat to passengers.
Violent Incidents Plague Daily Operations
The transit system has become an environment where passengers witness open drug use, violence, and disturbing behavior on a daily basis, according to rider reports. In September 2025 alone, there were 159 violent crimes recorded, including 44 aggravated assaults, 29 robberies, 11 sex offenses, and one rape. Riders report constant exposure to homeless individuals in crisis, drug deals conducted openly, and weapons being displayed on trains and buses. Metro employees have also been victims of repeated assaults, including spitting, punching, shoving, and threats while assisting passengers.
Fatal Attack Highlights System Dangers
A particularly tragic incident occurred in April 2024 when 67-year-old Mirna Soza Arauz was fatally stabbed by Elliot Tramel Nowden in an unprovoked attack on the system. Nowden received a life sentence in December 2025 for the killing. The case became a focal point for safety advocates demanding stronger protections for vulnerable riders. Transit officials said the incident underscored the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms across the entire Metro network.
Agency Launches New Safety Initiatives
In June 2024, the Metro board approved creating its own Transit Community Public Safety Department with a $192 million budget to replace outside law enforcement agencies by 2029. In January 2026, the agency launched a new Care-Based Services Division combining Metro Ambassadors, homeless outreach, and crisis-intervention teams. The initiatives represent a shift toward a hybrid approach blending traditional security with social services to address root causes of transit crime and disorder.
Riders Remain Concerned Despite Crime Drop
Despite a reported 8% decrease in violent crime during the first 11 months of 2025 compared to 2024, passengers continue to feel unsafe and vulnerable on the system. Transit officials acknowledged that perception of safety remains a critical challenge even as some crime statistics show improvement. Riders can track real-time service information and plan safer routes using Moovit, which provides updates for Los Angeles Metro lines throughout the region.
