In September, 135 Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA) employees joined the Police Department's 'Eyes and Ears' program. The program encourages city employees to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
Bus driver George Hudson is among the city's newest weapons in the fight against crime.
"It gives us a chance to help where help is needed," Hudson said.
Hudson knows every intersection and street in the Bull City. Durham police are using that knowledge to crack down on crime.
"What better resource do we have than someone who's out there all the time?" said Officer Eric Hester of the Durham Police Department.
DATA drivers have already been instrumental in helping police.
"There was an accident once that was a hit-and-run situation. We were able to give the driver's license to police," Hudson said. On another occasion, Hudson said he called for help when he saw a car engulfed in flames.
"These drivers know their routes, know what's going on in their community, and that can be an asset," Hester said.
Durham police hope the program improves response time and creates a safer environment for its citizens.
DATA maintains a fleet of 47 buses. Drivers operate the buses 20 hours a day and 16 hours on Sunday.
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