CNS News– In response to a surge in transit crime, Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at bolstering safety within New York City’s subway system. The initiative includes the deployment of National Guard troops and New York State Police troopers, alongside additional measures to ensure the protection of commuters and transit workers.
Governor Hochul announced the deployment of National Guard troops as part of a five-point plan to safeguard subway riders. The plan also involves assigning 1,000 state workers, including 250 state police troopers and Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police members, to assist the NYPD in enhanced baggage checks at heavily trafficked areas of the subway system.
The governor emphasized the importance of addressing subway crime, stating, “Since taking office, I have been laser-focused on driving down subway crime and protecting New Yorkers.” Hochul’s plan also includes a proposal to amend state law to allow judges to ban individuals convicted of assault within the subway system from using MTA services as part of their sentencing.
Additionally, the plan seeks to improve coordination between law enforcement agencies, transit personnel, and city district attorneys to combat crime effectively. Measures include regular meetings to share information on holding dangerous, repeat offenders within the system accountable.
National Guard to be deployed in New York City subway in crime crackdown: Governor https://t.co/GlTtVeLaGU pic.twitter.com/oGkHJFLnWr
— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) March 6, 2024
The MTA is accelerating the installation of cameras inside subway cars, focusing on conductor cabins to protect workers and aid police investigations. Hochul allocated $20 million to expand the Street Conditions Observation Units (SCOUT) team pilot program, aimed at addressing severe cases of individuals with mental health crises within the subway system.
Transit crime fell by more than 15% in February compared to the previous year. However, subway crime in January saw a 45% increase, primarily due to grand larcenies. Hochul highlighted recent incidents, including a man being kicked onto subway tracks at the Penn Station stop and a fatal shooting at a Bronx subway station, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Read More News: Cartoonist Plunges from NYC Building Despite Girlfriend’s Frantic Efforts: ‘He Slipped Away’!
Delta Pilot Drank Too Much Alcohol Before Trip from Edinburgh to New York!
Unexpected: A Huge Number of People Have Logged Off of Facebook and Instagram!
NYPD Transit Chief Michael Kemper reported a 45% increase in arrests within the subway system this year. The recidivism problem was exemplified by the case of a 23-year-old woman released after assaulting a cellist in the subway, only to be arrested again for theft. The governor’s plan received praise from New York City prosecutors, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of subway riders and MTA employees.