NYC Subway Safety: More Cops on Patrol After Recent Attacks

Despite an overall drop in subway crime in 2024, New York City is increasing its police presence in the transit system. This comes in response to several high-profile, violent incidents, including the horrific murder of a woman who was set on fire on a subway train. While overall major crime in the subway system decreased by 5.4% in 2024 compared to 2023, and is down 12.7% from pre-pandemic levels, murders doubled.

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NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that people don't feel safe, even with the crime decrease. Mayor Eric Adams echoed this sentiment, highlighting that perception overrides reality. The increased police presence involves over 200 officers patrolling trains and additional officers deployed to the 50 highest-crime stations.

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Further initiatives are planned to address the issue, including tackling severe mental health issues, a key factor contributing to the recent surge in violence, according to Governor Kathy Hochul's $1 billion plan.

This comes as New York City's congestion pricing plan, which aims to improve the transit system, has just gone into effect. The NYPD is also focusing on addressing repeat offenders.

Key Initiatives:

• Increased police presence: More than 200 officers on trains, additional officers in high-crime stations.
• Focus on mental health: Addressing severe mental health issues to prevent future incidents.
• Congestion pricing: New toll system to fund transit improvements.
• Repeat offenders: Targeting repeat offenders to reduce crime.