Like shopping centres, malls, universities, and other large public facilities, Metro Vancouver’s transit system employs private security personnel. These personnel appear on transit property.
Although Transit Security employees wear uniforms that resemble those of police officers, they are not police officers or peace officers. Transit Security personnel have the same legal powers as any other citizen. Criminal investigations, arrests requiring police authority, and other law enforcement duties are the responsibility of the Transit Police or the local police of jurisdiction, such as VPD or RCMP.
Harassed by Transit Security?
Harassment is unwanted behaviour that is repeated or serious enough to make someone feel threatened or intimidated. Harassment is a punishable criminal conduct.
Transit users being repeatedly approached and stopped by TransLink employees, including Transit Security, constitutes harassment. It is important to always record your interactions with transit employees and report any suspicious, intimidating behaviour or immediate danger to 9-1-1.
👉Different people perceive threat and intimidation differently.
👉One unwanted interaction suffices to constitute harassment.
👉Transit Security is not police, peace officer, or special constable.
👉Transit Security must not approach you anywhere outside a moving transit vehicle.