Call for CHP Officers to Boost BART Security

In response to recent violent incidents on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, the Bay Area Council, supported by over 100 Asian American Pacific Islander groups and other stakeholders, has urged Governor Gavin Newsom to deploy California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers across the network. This request follows several high-profile violent acts, including a fatal shoving incident and a stabbing, which have heightened safety concerns among BART riders, particularly within the AAPI community. Despite BART's report of a 12% decrease in overall crime, stakeholders emphasize that crime targeting vulnerable groups remains a significant deterrent for riders. The coalition argues that the presence of uniformed officers would restore public confidence and increase ridership. While the CHP deployment is debated, BART's leadership is open to additional support but highlights their ongoing efforts, including hiring more officers. Governor Newsom's office has acknowledged the request but emphasized the state's substantial financial support to BART in recent years.