Azusa officials accuse LA Metro of dumping passengers overnight

City officials and residents in Azusa, California, are accusing LA Metro of causing an increase in local crime by forcing passengers off late-night trains at the Azusa station. Although the A Line continues to its terminus in Pomona, residents report that passengers, including many experiencing homelessness, are being cleared from the trains and left to roam the community.

Local residents have documented instances of package theft, attempted break-ins, and public urination or defecation near residential complexes. Azusa Mayor Edward Alvarez stated that the practice places an unfair burden on local law enforcement and city resources.

LA Metro maintains that the overnight clearances are necessary for maintenance. The agency explained that the final two A Line trains must stop in Azusa to provide crews with sufficient time to clean and sanitize the cars before morning service. Extending these specific trains to Pomona would leave workers with only approximately 45 minutes to complete essential tasks. In response to the complaints, Metro is considering the installation of fare gates at the Azusa station.