NCJ Number
99350
Date Published
1985
Length
181 pages
Annotation
This report documents transit security information systems currently used by transit police and security departments in several cities.
Abstract
The study involved a literature review pertaining to existing Federal, State, and local crime reporting systems as well as interviews with experts in the crime-reporting area. The second phase of the study consisted of fact-gathering interviews at 23 transit agencies to document the transit security reporting systems in use and determine how transit security is organized. Data were obtained on the types of security information being generated, how the information is processed, and how it is used. The report identifies five groups of transit police and security departments distinguished by divisions of security functions between transit police and local public police. The information requirements of each of the five groups are delineated. Three alternative reporting systems are identified: one appropriate for a one- or two-person security department, one for a larger security department without sworn police officers, and one for a transit police department with sworn officers. Conclusions and recommendations focus on the liaison of transit security personnel with local police, incident classification systems, operator reporting practices, information processing procedures and forms, and computer systems. Recommendations are offered for the Urban Mass Transportation Administration. An appendix lists contact persons at the 23 transit agencies as well as the hardware and software used at each agency. A 15-item bibliography is provided.