Los Angeles Department of Transportation pilots system to detect concealed weapons_1

On October 23, the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) launched a pilot scanning system at Union Station aimed at detecting concealed weapons among passengers, with the goal of preventing violent incidents.

Metro officially showcased this new technology to the public. The detection system is positioned at the B/D line entrances of Union Station, where it will gauge the flow of passengers and check for a certain number of individuals potentially carrying weapons. If the system identifies anyone with a concealed weapon, Metro security or law enforcement will conduct further searches. Officials indicated that the pilot project is set to conclude by the end of December, at which point they will evaluate whether to expand the initiative to other locations. They emphasized that this system provides an “effective and non-intrusive screening method” for monitoring hidden threats.

Robert Gummer, Metro’s Deputy Chief of System Security and Law Enforcement, noted, “Since last year, the number of arrests for weapon possession within public transportation systems has doubled.” He stated, “We take this issue seriously, and we believe exploring these technologies is a critical first step in enhancing system safety.” So far this year, Metro has arrested 152 individuals for weapon possession.

The pilot project will test three different detection systems, each for several weeks. The Metro board has also advocated for the adoption of such technological measures. In September, Metro began installing weapon identification software on its surveillance systems to detect visible firearms. Gummer also revealed that Metro is experimenting with millimeter-wave detection technology, similar to security checks at airports and government sites. This technology uses electromagnetic waves to detect potential weapons hidden under clothing.

The urgency for these measures was underscored by an incident in September when a Metro bus was hijacked, resulting in the death of a passenger. With the rise in assaults and homicides on public transit, Metro is facing increasing pressure from residents, passengers, and elected officials to implement enhanced public safety initiatives.