Los Angeles, California – The Los Angeles Department of Transportation has removed a series of public service announcement videos that urged riders not to engage in inappropriate behavior — including defecating — on city buses. The videos were part of a broader rider awareness campaign but were taken down shortly after public inquiries about the messaging.
Officials have not publicly explained why the videos were removed. It is also unclear whether the announcements are still being displayed inside buses operating throughout the city.
Incident Overview
The now-removed videos were part of a campaign titled “If you see something, do something about it.” The initiative included six separate PSAs encouraging riders to report disruptive or unsanitary behavior while using city transit services.
Among the behaviors highlighted were:
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Fare evasion
- Playing loud music
- Defecating on buses
The inclusion of a message specifically asking riders not to poop on buses quickly drew attention online and among local observers, prompting questions about whether there had been a rise in such incidents.
Timeline of Events
The PSAs were available on LADOT’s YouTube channel and official website before being removed. After inquiries were made to the agency seeking clarification on whether there had been ongoing sanitation problems involving human waste on buses, the department did not respond to calls or emails requesting comment.
Shortly after those inquiries, the videos were taken down from public platforms. As of now, no official statement has been released explaining the removal.
It remains unknown whether the PSAs are still being shown on internal transit displays across the city’s bus network.
Details From Officials
The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) has not issued a public explanation for the decision to remove the videos. The agency has also not confirmed whether there was a documented increase in incidents that prompted the specific messaging.
While the department has stayed silent regarding the removal, it continues to encourage riders to report misconduct.
According to LADOT guidance, passengers who witness incidents should provide:
- Route number
- Date and time of incident
- Description of the individual involved
Riders can contact transit staff via email at [email protected] or by calling (213) 546-7066.
Key Facts About the Transit System
- Agency: Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT)
- Bus System Name: DASH
- Neighborhoods Served: 27 neighborhoods across Los Angeles
- Operates commuter services and specialized buses for older adults and individuals with disabilities
- Separate from LA Metro
LADOT operates independently from LA Metro, which runs the region’s larger rail and bus network. The DASH system primarily serves local neighborhood routes, providing short-distance transportation within communities.
Public Reaction and Sanitation Concerns
Although officials have not commented on the reasoning behind the PSA removal, public transportation systems in major urban centers often face sanitation challenges. Issues such as littering, vandalism, and bodily waste can create health risks and impact rider experience.
Public transit agencies nationwide routinely use awareness campaigns to promote cleanliness and respectful behavior. However, messaging that addresses highly sensitive topics can sometimes generate unintended attention or criticism.
Transit systems must balance transparency about challenges with maintaining public confidence. Campaigns intended to deter inappropriate behavior may also spark questions about how widespread such problems actually are.
Safety and Reporting Awareness
LADOT continues to emphasize that rider participation is essential for maintaining a safe and clean transit environment. Reporting incidents promptly allows transit staff to respond more effectively.
Passengers are encouraged to:
- Notify drivers or transit staff immediately if safe to do so
- Provide accurate route and time information
- Avoid confrontation with individuals involved in disruptive behavior
Maintaining hygiene and public order on buses is critical, especially for vulnerable populations such as seniors and riders with disabilities who rely heavily on neighborhood transit services.
Conclusion
The removal of LADOT’s controversial PSA videos has raised questions about both sanitation concerns and communication strategy. With no official explanation provided, the reasoning behind the decision remains unclear.
What is certain is that transit agencies continue to face ongoing challenges in ensuring cleanliness and rider safety. Public cooperation plays a central role in keeping city buses accessible and welcoming for everyone.
Have you noticed similar public awareness campaigns on transit systems in your area? Share your experiences in the comments below.
