It is the vision( 设想 ) of the Public Transit Police Department to achieve a transit system free from crime and disorder . Transit Police programs are designed to enhance safety, increase riders and preserve the quality of our system ’ s structure . Transit has its own police force committed to the safety of its customers and drivers, serving seven counties and 85 cities in the region . There are 23 full - time officers, 146 part - time officers and 5 administrative( 行政的 ) staff, devoted to one thing : public safety . You ’ ve probably seen Transit Police officers patrolling( 巡逻 ) bus routes in cars or on foot . During visits with drivers, Transit Police either ride along or they step on board to greet drivers and passengers. Sometimes officers patrol out of uniform — one could be on your next bus . The fare inspectors on Hiawatha light - rail trains are Transit Police officers . Every new Public Transit bus has an onboard security camera. Videotapes from these cameras help Transit Police identify and charge criminals . Downtown patrols built up in early 2002 have improved the quality of life for downtown residents and transit customers . Ten full - time police officers are assigned to the Minneapolis and St . Paul downtown areas, to ensure public security . Downtown arrests have gone from 490 in April - September 2001 to 941 during the same period in 2002 .