The Regional Transportation District (RTD) has selected Steve Martingano as its new Chief of Police and Emergency Management, slated to formally take the position following a swearing-in ceremony at Denver Union Station on May 13th. Martingano, who has been with the agency since 2015, has been filling in as Acting Chief of Police and Emergency Management since July 2024 after his predecessor Joel Fitzgerald, was let go due to policy violations. "Having Steve's continued dedication and commitment at RTD is a big win for the agency's employees and customers," General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson said, as reported by KDVR.
Martingano, previously RTD's deputy chief, is taking on the chief role permanently at a time when RTD is focusing on creating a safer and more welcoming transit environment. His efforts have seemed to positively affect crime rates, with a significant drop in security-related calls reported in recent months. Under Martingano, RTD has seen a 52% decrease in February compared to last year, as well as a 60% reduction in calls at Denver Union Station following a concerted three-year focus, according to Denver7.
During his tenure, Martingano launched sector policing and was instrumental in establishing the first mental health co-responder unit in transit policing. In recognition of his leadership in these innovative approaches, he co-founded the National Transportation Vulnerable Populations Working Group and became a subject-matter expert for American Public Transportation Association (APTA) peer review panels. "I promise to lead with integrity and transparency while fostering accountability and building trust," Martingano said, as per RTD Denver.
