The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s Transit Police have agreed to ongoing patrols of Haverhill’s downtown and Bradford commuter rail stations to deter crime.
Ward 1 City Councilor Ralph T. Basiliere told WHAV he consulted with Haverhill Deputy Police Chief Meaghan Paré and reached out to MBTA General Manager and Interim Transportation Secretary Phil Eng.
“We have identified some problems at the train stations that we could use some help with…and asked for regular patrols from the MBTA Transit Police and they have honored that request,” he said.
Basiliere explained concerns center on loitering, public drunkenness, litter and drug use. He expects patrols will begin within the next few weeks.
“Those types of things we want to stay on top of so that people have a safe and comfortable experience with the train station in their neighborhood,” he added.
Paré told WHAV, “Any additional law enforcement presence that enhances public safety, deters criminal activity and provides another layer of protection for our residents and commuters is a positive development.”
The deputy chief explained the departments will work together as partners.
“While different agencies have distinct jurisdictions and responsibilities, that does not prevent us from working together. Coordination, communication and cooperation between agencies are essential to effective policing,” she said.