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CATA Responds to Arrest Video at Downtown Transportation Center
Authorities say the individual was previously banned from the property due to violent behavior.
Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:39pm
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CATA, the Capital Area Transportation Authority, has released a statement and security footage in response to a viral video showing a Lansing police officer making a rough arrest at the downtown transportation center. CATA says the individual was previously banned from the property due to a history of violence and threats, and they are cooperating with the police investigation into the incident.
Why it matters
The incident has sparked concerns about how CATA and law enforcement handle situations involving unhoused individuals seeking shelter, especially during extreme weather. There are questions about CATA's policies for banning individuals and the appropriate use of force by police.
The details
According to CATA's statement, the Lansing Police Department responded to a trespassing complaint at the downtown transportation center on Sunday night regarding an unhoused individual who had been previously banned from the facility due to a history of violence and threats. Officers warned the individual they would be arrested if they did not leave, and the person was ultimately taken into custody for trespassing. The Lansing Police Department has opened a complaint review and the officer involved has been reassigned to administrative duty during the investigation.
- The incident occurred on Sunday evening at the CATA Transportation Center in downtown Lansing.
- CATA released its statement and security footage on Monday in response to the viral video.
The players
Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA)
The public transportation agency serving the Lansing, Michigan metropolitan area.
Lansing Police Department
The law enforcement agency for the city of Lansing, Michigan.
Robert Backus
Chief of the Lansing Police Department.
What they’re saying
“Consistent with our mission and values, CATA is deeply committed to supporting the needs of our community's unhoused population at all times, particularly during extreme weather, while ensuring the safety of our riders and staff.”
— CATA
“The Lansing Police Department takes all complaints seriously and is committed to addressing concerns regarding police response.”
— Robert Backus, Chief of the Lansing Police Department
What’s next
The Lansing Police Department is currently reviewing this incident and CATA is fully cooperating while undertaking its own review of internal policies and procedures.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the complex challenges faced by public transportation agencies and law enforcement when dealing with issues of homelessness, mental health, and public safety. It underscores the need for clear policies, de-escalation training, and collaborative approaches to support vulnerable populations while maintaining order and security.
