What is the correct procedure for handling a fare evasion attempt?

• A. Tell the rider to pay at the next station and let them go.
• B. Immediately arrest the passenger.
• C. Observe discreetly, document details, inform a supervisor, and follow agency policy for payment or clearance.
• D. Publicly accuse them over the PA system.

Answer: (C)

Handling fare evasion this way centers on safety, proper process, and keeping within your authority. The correct approach is to observe discreetly, document key details (time, location, description, what occurred), inform a supervisor or dispatcher, and follow the agency’s policy for payment, clearance, or any further action. This sequence creates a clear record, ensures the incident is handled by the right channels, and avoids escalating the situation through unnecessary confrontation. It also upholds due process and safety for both riders and staff.

Other approaches bypass these safeguards: publicly announcing or shaming the rider can escalate the situation and violate privacy; arresting without the proper authority or policy can be inappropriate or unlawful; telling the rider to pay later bypasses established procedures and can undermine enforcement and revenue control.