Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) recently released a free app for riders called Say Something. Named after the phrase “If you see something, say something,” the app allows riders to instantly report crimes in progress on the DART system. According to DART police, over 1,700 people have downloaded the app since its launch and several crimes have been reported. The organization would not say if any arrests have resulted from the app.
Besides simply reporting crimes in progress, the app also allows users to secretly record video and audio of crimes. It does this by activating your phone’s camera while disabling the flash and shutter sound.
Crime on DART and Consequences
According to DART Police, the most common serious crimes that occur on DART are larceny/theft, robbery, aggravated assault and vehicle theft. Public intoxication and criminal trespass are the most common minor crimes.
According to a report in October 2017, DART stations downtown have seen an uptick in crime that continues to rise. The sale of synthetic drugs, in particular, has risen significantly. Between January and August of this year, more than 150 people have been arrested for K-2, a dangerous synthetic drug marketed as a marijuana alternative. Six platforms in Dallas’ Central Business District saw an increase of 15 percent in arrests. Earlier this year, a DART bus stop was permanently shuttered due to the high number of crimes that occurred there.
If you have been charged with a crime by DART police, you should secure a Dallas criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney’s assistance is invaluable at every step in the process but to maximize your chances of having your charges reduced or dismissed, you will want to speak to an attorney as soon as you are able.
