RTD reports sustained reductions in reports of drug activity and security calls
Transit Police expansion of fare checks and increased visibility support systemwide improvements
DENVER (Sept. 3, 2026) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD) Transit Police (RTD-PD) reports a significant decline in illicit drug activity and decreases in the number of security-related calls into police dispatchers from the prior year. The downturn in reports show that the department's actions to prioritize a welcoming and secure customer experience are continuing to deliver meaningful results.
RTD is seeing a steep reduction in reports of illicit drug activity, by more than 50% in most months through July 2026 compared with the same time in 2025. Notably, April 2026 saw a 69.3% drop in reported drug activity, followed by a 59% decrease in May. These decreases build on significant progress throughout 2025, when Transit Police recorded an 81.9% decline in reports of drug activity in February and a 72.9% decrease in May.
Security-related calls continue to trend downward as well. In 2025, RTD saw decreases of up to 43% in monthly security-related calls compared to the prior year. While 2026 decreases are more modest than those in 2025, Transit Police continue to see a downward trend in calls for service. These include all calls, text messages, and radio communications to RTD’s Transit Police Dispatch Center. Many calls originate from Transit Police officers proactively contacting dispatchers while conducting welfare checks or other routine security activities throughout the district.
Increased fare checks
In June 2026, the most recent data available, RTD recorded a 17% reduction in calls for service. Transit Police and security officers also conducted more than 433,000 fare checks. Since July 2025, Transit Police and security officers have conducted more than 400,000 fare checks a month. Fare checks help ensure that paying customers have boarded RTD vehicles and increase opportunities for officers to interact directly with customers. The increase in fare checks that began last year also is intended to increase officer visibility across the system.
“The positive data is a clear indication that the work our police department is doing every day is making a real impact,” said RTD Chief of Police and Emergency Management Steve Martingano. “The sharp drop in drug‑activity reports and the steady decline in calls for service show that increased presence, consistent fare checks, and strong community engagement are paying off. We still have work to do, but this trend is encouraging and reflects the dedication to providing our customers a welcoming transit environment"
Security reporting now available through the NextRide mobile app
RTD’s new NextRide mobile app makes it easier than ever for customers to report security concerns. The app integrates security reporting into the same platform customers can use to plan trips, view Service Alerts, and purchase and store digital fares. NextRide consolidates multiple RTD tools into a streamlined experience, replacing the need to separately access Transit Watch or the MyRide app.
“The NextRide app provides our customers with a convenient platform to share information directly with our police dispatchers, and support timely deployment of police or security assistance,” said Martingano. “We strongly encourage customers to use this one-stop app to provide real-time input that enhances our ability to allocate resources efficiently.”
Customers can access the reporting feature through the app’s Security section, where they can connect directly with Transit Police dispatchers who work around the clock, year-round, to address concerns. While most customers travel without issue on RTD services, the feature offers another convenient way to get assistance quickly. Customers may also continue to contact Transit Police by calling 303.299.2911 or texting 303.434.9100.