Ask a Muni Security Guy Part II
Since we had so many questions asked of our Muni Security Guy last week, we decided to split his comments into two. Today, he answers the few remaining questions that were asked.
And away we go...
Why do the fare inspectors seem to cluster together in packs of 4 or more? Safety in numbers? Or because it's an easier way to check for passes/transfers?
They work in pairs, for their safety. They shouldn't be clustering.
How many times in the last year did SFPD/MTA Security respond to 5150 calls regarding disruptive/mentally ill passengers aboard Muni vehicles?
SFPD respond to 5150's? We don't keep records of that however SFPD district cars will respond to handle.
What did you think about the whiny Ken Garcia column... the one about how his daughter and her friends were "mortified" after they were caught without transfers?
The staff have the discretion to cite / not cite. It appears there was a valid reason / violation for a citation to be issued. Insofar as Mr. Garcia's complaining - he is entitled to do so.
Thanks and stay safe out there.
Thank you.
ok i can't do math. still. one hundred times the fare?? And if you don't think that's "crippling" to most people, then I want your job. I mean, as long as I don't have to count and stuff. Don't even get me started on the homeless who abuse the system and ride for free all day and NEVER get ticketed, leaving their bodily fluids and garbage on the train while i'm sure having an impact on what the rest of us pay to ride. i bought a car.
As far as dealing with the homeless, they are issued citations however there are various homeless coalitions out there that "take care" of the citation.
a) how frickin stupid is it to have a gate right there that you can walk through?
ADA laws. Must have them. Signs are posted at the booth windows directing cash paying patrons go to the other booth to pay. If you have a fare receipt, transfer or fast pass, your good to enter the gate (when no one is present).
b) every time i'm worried about getting busted. what the heck am i supposed to do?
You may explain the situation and the fare inspector has the discretion to cite, not cite (warn) or perhaps allow you to go pay. Upon contact within a paid area, it is your responsibility to have valid fare media. The fare inspectors are there to enforce the policies.
another question on fare skipping and getting caught: i've always figured that if i do skip the fare or have an expired transfer that i'd just tell the security person that i'd lost my transfer. oops! what are they gonna do? theoretically, isn't the burden on them to prove that i didn't pay?
The burden is on you to show valid fare media, not the fare inspector. The Proof of Payment Program is based on the honor system through paid zones - entering a bus, train or station. In these vehicles / areas, you are in a paid zone and you must have the valid fare media. Again, the fare inspector may cite or warn.