By rssfeeds-admin The investigation, announced Tuesday, will focus on how CATS handles safety on its buses and light rail, including its use of private security, safety data, and overall security spending.
“One of the most basic duties a government owes the people is public safety,” said State Auditor Dave Boliek. “The recent lawlessness and violence that have taken place on Charlotte’s public transportation raise serious questions about the security measures in place. We will investigate CATS and examine its public safety contracts and operations.”
Charlotte’s transit system has faced increased scrutiny after several violent events. In March, a 64-year-old veteran was attacked on a CATS bus and reportedly became paralyzed from the neck down. In August, a 57-year-old veteran was hospitalized after being attacked by several people on another CATS bus. Just days later, a woman was stabbed and killed on Charlotte’s light rail by a man who had previously served time for robbery with a deadly weapon.
City and transit officials, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, the Metropolitan Transit Commission, and CATS leadership, have all been notified of the investigation.
The Auditor’s Office said it also plans to release a separate report this week on a City of Charlotte payment to the chief of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
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