From Police Chief Ernest Morales III
When I was young, I wanted to accomplish two things in life – to become a professional boxer and a police officer.
I’ve been blessed to achieve both goals, winning my one-and-only professional bout before joining the New York City Police Department and rising through the ranks to lead 180 officers responsible for patrolling some of the city’s busiest subway stations.
But I’ve also had to put in the work.
Growing up with a single mother in New York, I witnessed more than my share of violence and drug use, including in my own home, and created my own path after discovering the Boys & Girls Club and boxing.
My experience as an adolescent has been influential throughout my adult life and in my roles as father, husband, mentor, police officer, and law enforcement leader.
And it will continue to be important in my new role as Chief of Police for the Metro Transit Police Department. In particular, I hope to create many more opportunities to engage with youth throughout our service area.
Still, I know I have a lot to learn. Over the coming months, I plan to spend more time on the system visiting with you to better understand your concerns. If you see me out there, please say stop and say hello.
While I continue to learn, two things have already become clear:
> The Metro Transit Police Department’s team of nearly 200 police officers, Community Service Officers, and civilian staff are as committed as they come.
> The challenges we’re facing must be treated with more urgency and more resolve than ever before.
There are no simple fixes to the difficulties we’re facing. But I’m also confident that, together, we can and will make each day a little better than the last.
Already, targeted details on light rail and trouble spots like the Lake Street/Midtown Station have made a noticeable impact.
To sustain and build on these successes, we’ll have to work together. In practice, that means partnering with service providers, schools, neighborhood organizations, law enforcement partners and you, our riders.
Thank you for placing your trust in me, for the opportunity to help lead Metro Transit in a positive direction, and for your continued support as we move forward together.
Learn more
Read more about our Safety & Security Action Plan, which is guiding our ongoing efforts to improve public safety on transit at metrotransit.org/public-safety
We're hiring!
Applications for full-time police officers are being accepted through April 17, and applications for Community Service Officers are being accepted on a continuous basis. Learn more and apply at metrotransit.org/transit-police-careers