Chief: Expect More Patrols at Malden Center

The way Police Chief Kevin Molis sees it, the city and MBTA put benches and trees at the Malden Center T stop for a reason: so residents could enjoy it. 

That's why he said the department is "going to do the best it can" to provide a police presence at the city's busy transportation hub. 

Though the MBTA has its own police force, Molis said the department also faces budgetary limitations and a large, multi-city area to patrol.

Molis said a regular local presence would help combat "displays of disorder" such as public drinking, smoking and loitering, while also addressing more serious issues like homelessness and violent crime. 

He was quick to emphasize that he was there to help all residents, whether commuters or those down on their luck. 

"I want to emphasize that my department and this city are very sensitive to the issue of homelessness and the social problems people face in hard economic times - (as well as) the grim reality of what substance abuse and addiction can do to people," he said. 

He said officers would help those in need with referrals to public services and other safe locations to stay. 

"What I hope to see is that, building upon word of mouth (residents learn) this is a good place to read a book, sit down with your children and enjoy the day," he added.