MBTA Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green Joins Inaugural Justice George Lewis Ruffin Society Distinguished Fellows

The MBTA today announced that MBTA Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green has been named one of the inaugural Justice George Lewis Ruffin Society Distinguished Fellows by the Justice George Lewis Ruffin Society and Northeastern University's School of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

With nearly 40 years in law enforcement, Chief Green began his career in 1983 as a patrolman in Winchester, MA. He joined the MBTA Transit Police Department in 1991, advancing through the ranks from Sergeant to Lieutenant, Deputy Chief, Interim Chief, and finally becoming the permanent Chief in 2015.

“Chief Kenneth Green has led the Transit Police force with integrity and professionalism and we are pleased that he is being recognized for his strong leadership skills,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “Chief Green is a credit to the MBTA workforce and the communities served by the MBTA as his daily actions demonstrate empathy and compassion for the public he serves.”

“Chief Green is integral to our leadership team leading our dedicated Transit Police, keeping our riders and workers safe. He serves with great pride and this well honor is well deserved recognition for his contributions throughout his career and unwavering commitment. Under his leadership, I see the excellence exhibited from our amazing officers as we make the MBTA safer for all but. Congratulations, Chief Green, on this well-deserved honor," said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng.

“It’s an honor to be named a Distinguished Fellow by the Justice George Lewis Ruffin Society. This recognition reflects not only my values, but the values of the MBTA Transit Police Department — our commitment to safety and community engagement. We are committed to maintaining as safe a commuting environment as possible for all to utilize and enjoy,” said MBTA Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green.

“The Ruffin Society Board is pleased to celebrate 40 years, and to honor the Class of 2024, as it reflects the success of our founding principles and mission. The members remain committed to the work ahead, and are pleased to recognize individuals for their leadership and commitment to the communities they serve,” said Ruffin Society Board President Anthony Owens.

Chief Green will be recognized along with Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Cambridge Police Commissioner Christine Elow, Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden, and Former US Marshal for Massachusetts John Gibbons, among other distinguished law enforcement leaders.

As Chief, Green manages a department responsible for policing across 175 cities and towns serviced by the MBTA. He oversees daily operations, ensures the safety of riders and staff, and fosters relationships with community organizations and various law enforcement agencies.

Under Chief Green's leadership, a new patrol plan tailored specifically for transit policing has led to record-low crime rates on the MBTA. He also established a juvenile unit aimed at building positive connections with young people, which has significantly reduced juvenile arrests.

Chief Green earned his bachelor’s degree from Boston University, where he played college football, and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Anna Maria College. He completed Law Enforcement Executive Development Training at Roger Williams University and participated in Boston University’s Senior Management Institute for Police and the National Counterterrorism Summit in Israel.

Additionally, Chief Green attended the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where he successfully completed rigorous academic and physical training alongside 227 fellow law enforcement executives from across the U.S. and 27 other countries.