Frequently Asked Questions
How can I report a crime or suspicious activity at BART?
A: Call BART Police Dispatch at 510-464-7000 or use the free BART Watch app available on the App Store and Google Play. For non-emergency needs you can text BART PD at 510-200-0992.
Do BART Police Officers have the same police authority as city Police Officers and Deputy Sheriffs?
A: Yes. BART Police Officers are fully sworn Peace Officers that have the same powers of arrest as city Police Officers and county Sheriff's Deputies. In addition, BART Officers attend the same Police Academies and receive continuous police training.
In addition to taking enforcement action on BART property, can BART Police Officers take enforcement action off of BART property (i.e., within city limits, county jurisdictions, or on state highways)?
A: Yes. BART Officers may take enforcement action off of BART jurisdiction, anywhere within the state of California. If there is immediate danger to persons or property, BART Officers may arrest, cite and release, or warn the perpetrators.
What types of crimes do BART Police Officers investigate?
A: BART Officers and Detectives investigate all reported crimes that occur on BART property. These crimes include transit-related crimes and auto burglaries, auto thefts, robberies, purse snatches, assaults, homicides, and any other felonies, misdemeanors or infractions that occur within the BART District.
What are the telephones marked with blue signs and blue strobe lights for that are located in BART parking lots?
A: These telephones are hooked directly to the BART Police Communications Center. The phones should only be used for reporting emergencies to the BART Police. For calls to the Police Department for non-emergencies, other options such as cell phones or contacting on-duty BART personnel should be used.
Does BART having working cameras on board trains?
A: Yes, all BART cars having working surveillance cameras. BART replaced all decoy cameras with working systems.