Metra Police Department
| Company type | Police department |
|---|---|
| Industry | Law enforcement, transit security |
| Founded | 1983 |
| Headquarters | Chicago , United States |
Area served | Cook, Will, DuPage, Kane, McHenry, and Lake counties, Illinois |
Key people | Joseph Perez (Chief of Police) |
| Products | Law enforcement and security services for Metra commuter rail system |
| Parent | Metra (Regional Transportation Authority) |
| Website | metrarail |
The Metra Police Department was created to provide security for the metropolitan Chicago commuter rail system, Metra, which consists of eleven rail lines and 242 stations. Its core mission involves safeguarding Metra passengers, staff, and property—including trains and facilities—while enforcing applicable criminal and traffic regulations related to the Metra network. Officers within the Metra Police are fully sworn law enforcement agents charged with maintaining safety throughout a service region spanning six counties: Cook, Will, DuPage, Kane, McHenry, and Lake.
History
The Illinois State Legislature created the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) in 1974. A subsequent reorganization of the RTA in 1983 led to the establishment of Metra and empowered its divisions to develop dedicated police forces, resulting in the formation of the Metra Police Department.
Powers and authority
Under the RTA Act, these police units possess the same powers as municipal police officers. Although their main jurisdiction covers transit operations within six counties, officers frequently make arrests off Metra property due to the extensive nature of the rail system.
All Metra police officers hold full certification and operate throughout the six-county area. Consequently, citations and criminal charges are processed in various judicial venues, usually within the court located closest to where an arrest occurs.
Safety
Ensuring safety remains a primary focus, with initiatives aimed at reducing accidents and injuries. Enforcement of traffic regulations near stations and railroad crossings seeks to enhance public awareness and adherence.
The Metra Police work in partnership with local law enforcement agencies to address dangerous conditions and uphold laws that protect public safety. Their jurisdiction extends beyond properties owned or leased by Metra.
In 2008, the department adopted a computer-aided dispatch system alongside electronic report writing tools to streamline operations.
2014 investigation report
A report issued in January 2014 by security consulting firm Hillard Heintze described the department as "antiquated," citing issues such as excessive overtime and staffing shortages. The comprehensive 114-page analysis identified concerns regarding training quality, counterterrorism preparedness, and dedication to passenger safety. On average, the department made fewer than one arrest daily.
New Chief
Joseph Perez was appointed Chief of Metra Police in May 2014 after being chosen from a pool of 68 candidates and 12 finalists. His leadership was intended to guide reforms following the critical findings of the report.
Homeland Security Unit
In response to the September 11 attacks in 2001, the Metra Police Department intensified its anti-terrorism focus. The Homeland Security Unit—previously known as the Special Operations Unit—is tasked with protecting passengers and terminals across the entire Metra system. Officers are assigned to both the Chicago Police Fusion Center (CPIC) and the Illinois State Police Statewide Terrorism Information Center (STIC). Additionally, the department actively engages with the Chicago Police CAPS program and coordinates with the Chicago Office of Emergency Communications (OEMC) for large-scale event planning.
Fatal Incident
On September 27, 2006, Officer Thomas A. Cook, aged 43, was tragically killed by 28-year-old Jemetric Nicholson during a robbery prevention assignment near the 147th Street station in Harvey, Illinois. Nicholson fired at Officer Cook while he was inside his patrol vehicle. On March 31, 2016, Nicholson was sentenced to life imprisonment for the homicide.