Saskatoon police removed 346 people from Saskatoon buses for unpaid fares in September, the first month of the city’s new transit safety program. In September, officers removed 346 people for not paying their fares. Another 24 were removed for inappropriate behaviour, 31 transit bylaw tickets were issued and 67 charges were laid. Police Chief Cam McBride reported the numbers at the Oct. 15 police board meeting. “I want to stress that although the numbers seem high for one month, a main focus of the work that we’re doing is education and support,” McBride said during the meeting. McBride said the goal is to make transit safe for everyone. “I don’t think we can allow unsafe things to happen on the bus just because we’re worried about creating space for everyone. We need to create safe space for everyone, and that’s the focus of the program,” McBride said. Riders react to new enforcement on buses Adam Atchison said he’s witnessed public urination, violence and drug use on board. “I’ve seen some pretty crazy stuff on these buses,” he told CTV News. Diana Decaire said she’s noticed a difference with police on buses. “They’re actually stopping people from getting on the bus. It seems like they don’t do free rides anymore, so that’s good,” she said. Bryan Wagner said he’s also noticed police on buses and officers checking fares with a device that verifies payment. The transit safety program has one full-time sergeant, with officers from other units helping with enforcement. Four full-time constables will be dedicated to the program next year.
