MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — Light rail passengers are hearing a new warning as they stand on the platform, waiting for the train. They’re being alerted to the newest trend in crime: cell phone theft.
Passengers are having their phones snatched right out of their hands.
Metro Transit spokesperson John Siqveland said from Sept. 24 to Oct. 27 there were 19 cell phone thefts reported. He said that’s equivalent to up to five months worth.
In most cases, the thieves wait until the doors of the light rail train opens. Then they grab the phone and run.
NewsRadio 830 WCCO’s Susie Jones Reports
Metro Transit Police Chief Dave Indrehus said so far two people have been arrested in connection with the thefts; one was arrested as recent as Tuesday night.
“And how that was accomplished is because of all of the trains, as well as buses, as well as our platforms, have video equipment on board,” Indrehus said.
Metro Transit has posted signs and automated messages to warn people on the platforms. Plain clothes officers have also been riding the train to watch for thefts.
