CHICAGO (WLS) — A new initiative aimed at tackling crime on public transit is being launched with the formation of a Regional Transit Task Force.
On Monday afternoon, Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke discussed the details of this new effort.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
“Everyone has the right to feel safe when using public transit,” stated O’Neill Burke. “This task force will unite law enforcement and transit officials to exchange intelligence, deter crime in transit areas, and enhance public safety, ultimately safeguarding both passengers and transit personnel.”
She elaborated on the task force’s mission to combat crime across CTA buses and trains within Chicago and the broader Cook County area.
The Regional Transit Task Force is set to convene regularly, with its inaugural meeting planned for May 26. Attendees will include members from the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Chicago Police Department, CTA, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, ATF, DEA, Metra, and Pace.
O’Neill Burke was accompanied by the acting president of the CTA as well as representatives from the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
“The formation of this task force marks a historic moment as CTA expands and builds upon its security strategy,” CTA acting President Nora Leerhsen said. “This is an unprecedented partnership that brings together local, county and federal law enforcement to work alongside every major transit agency in the Chicago region. Our message is simple: Law enforcement at every level is working in tandem with CTA to ensure a vibrant, thriving future for public transit.”
There have been numerous high-profile crimes on the CTA recently, including last week when a CTA bus was hijacked at knifepoint.
“Safe public transit is essential for connecting communities in and around the Chicagoland region,” Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart said. “We look forward to working with transit and law enforcement partners to improve safety and security for the two million public transit riders in Northeastern Illinois.”
“The Regional Transit Task force is another tool that will bring us together to hold criminal offenders accountable and prevent further crime from occurring on our buses and trains,” Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling said. “This task force is an example of what happens when all levels of government and law enforcement collaborate to better serve and safeguard those utilizing public transportation throughout the city.”
INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER | Track crime and safety in your neighborhood
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.
