Solis Issues Statement Following Metro’s Announcement of its First Chief of Police

Los Angeles, Calif. — Today, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Pro Tem and Metro Board Director Hilda L. Solis joined Metro in announcing William Scott as the agency’s first Chief of Police and Emergency Management.

Following the announcement, Solis issued the following statement:

“Metro is a lifeline for countless Angelenos, helping people get to work, attend school, and care for their families. That’s why I’ve consistently advocated for greater transparency, accountability, and responsiveness across the system, with a focus on addressing the needs of our most vulnerable and at-risk populations.

When Metro made the bold decision to establish their own Public Safety Department, I strongly supported moving away from an exclusively enforcement-first model. Instead, I advocated for a data-driven, care-first approach that blends traditional public safety with compassionate outreach. This includes integrating Metro Transit Ambassadors, crisis intervention teams led by mental health professionals, homeless services professionals, and public safety officers who work together to create a safer, more supportive transit environment for all riders.

With the appointment of Metro Chief William Scott to lead this department, we are reinforcing that commitment. Chief Scott brings a nationally recognized record of public safety reform, earned during his tenure as Chief of Police in San Francisco. His leadership has been defined by trust-building, transparency, and a deep understanding of the complex challenges facing modern urban transit systems.

I look forward to working with Chief Scott to strengthen Metro—improving safety, reliability, and accessibility for all riders.”