SacRT Welcomes Sheriff’s Department as Lead Partner for Transit Security

(@RideSacRT social media photo on X.)

(Sacramento, CA) — The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) has officially ushered in a new era of transit security, partnering with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department as its primary law enforcement agency across the transit system.

This transition, which started as of January 11, concludes SacRT’s 34-year contract with the Sacramento Police Department, which provided policing services for more than three decades. SacRT expressed gratitude for the department’s long-standing service in a post on X, while emphasizing that the shift is designed to strengthen safety and visibility for riders.

“Safety and security remain our top priority at SacRT. We are proud to expand our partnership with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department and continue investing in innovative technologies and staffing strategies that ensure our riders feel safe and supported throughout their journey,” said SacRT General Manager/CEO Henry Li.

According to an X post, the Sheriff’s Department will deploy a robust team of deputies, detectives, and security officers throughout the system. These personnel will work alongside SacRT’s Transit Ambassadors and security guards to deliver a layered approach to safety on buses, light rail trains, and at transit facilities.

“We are honored to strengthen our partnership with SacRT and expand our presence across the transit system. Our deputies are committed to providing professional, responsive service to help ensure a safe and secure environment for all SacRT passengers and employees,” said Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper.

SacRT officials noted the expanded staffing model is part of a broader investment in transit safety, combining enforcement, customer service and technology to maintain one of the safest transit systems in the country. The SacRT Board of Directors recently approved an additional $1 million investment in security for FY26 to further enhance rider safety and comfort. This funding will support additional Transit Ambassadors (from 40 to 50), hire two additional staff in the SOC, and expand security guard presence at stations, on vehicles and in parking lots. They are also implementing innovative technologies alongside the increased law enforcement presence to deter crime and improve response times.

The move comes as transit agencies nationwide reevaluate security strategies in response to changing rider needs and post-pandemic travel patterns. SacRT leaders say the partnership with the Sheriff’s Department will allow for greater flexibility, investigative support and coordinated enforcement across Sacramento County.

SacRT’s 24/7 Security Operations Center will continue to operate from the Sacramento Police Department’s Real Time Information Center, ensuring seamless coordination in emergency response and maintaining a strong collaborative relationship. This continuity is key to managing incidents effectively and ensuring that both agencies can share vital information in real time.

The AlertSacRT app is an essential tool for Sacramento transit users, offering real-time rider alerts and a discreet, effective way to report safety and security concerns directly to Regional Transit Police Services (RTPS). Users can send anonymous messages, including text, photos, or six-second videos, to report suspicious activities.

Attempts were made to obtain additional information from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, but no response was received. More information about SacRT’s safety initiatives and enhancements is available at sacrt.com/safety. Submit Sacramento County tips and story ideas to Sarah Denos at sarahkdenos@gmail.com.