GRESHAM, Ore. –- Crime has become so prevalent on some light-rail transportation lines that police will patrol MAX trains in Gresham beginning next week, Gresham’s mayor said Friday.

KGW file photo

Law enforcement on light-rail is handled by TriMet police officers, however, Mayor Shane Bemis said in a letter to the head of TriMet that he has consistently heard from citizens who feel the current service level is not enough to ensure a safe system.

"TriMet has maintained that crime along the light-rail line is simply an issue of perception, but the citizens that I represent tell me a much different story," Bemis said. "Accounts of public intoxication, gang activity, assault, harassment, and drugs… are prevalent."

More: Response from TriMet

In 2006, Gresham police responded to a number of calls immediately adjacent to, or within a quarter mile of, light rail stops in Gresham. These included 42 percent of all narcotics calls, 84 percent of all gang calls, and 40 percent of all fight calls.

Also: Teen gang suspects arrested for hammer attack at MAX stop

"Ultimately it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of our citizens, and in this case the time has come to take matters into our own hands," Bemis said.