WASHINGTON, D.C. – A fare evasion arrest on the Metro has sparked outrage among local leaders and activists after video surfaced online showing Metro Transit Police (MTP) pinning a woman to the ground at Navy Yard station.
The Arrest
The woman in the video was identified as Afeni, a D.C. activist with more than 60,000 Instagram followers, by Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White and the activist group Harriet’s Wildest Dreams.
Metro officials confirmed that a 28-year-old woman was arrested Friday night on charges of fare evasion, resisting arrest, and obstruction of justice. MTP alleged that she attempted to use a “Kids Ride Free” card, which is reserved for students between ages 5 and 21.
“Misuse of those fare cards is fare evasion and will not be tolerated,” MTP wrote in a post on X Saturday afternoon.
Councilmembers Voice Concerns
Several D.C. Councilmembers quickly responded to the incident, raising concerns about the use of force.
- Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder called the arrest “very unfortunate,” stressing the need to protect advocates. “If they speak up, they shouldn’t be penalized,” he said.
- Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker said he reached out to Metro officials for clarification. “The videos circulating are deeply concerning,” Parker wrote.
- Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White issued a statement directly naming Afeni and claiming that MTP used mace during the arrest. “I saw videos and didn’t see any reason for the mace or arrest,” he said, noting that the charges were later dismissed.
Activists Push Back
Activists condemned the arrest as an abuse of power…