Governor Hochul Unveils Five-Point Plan to Combat Subway Crime in NYC, Deploys National Guard and Police Officers
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has announced a comprehensive five-point plan to address the rising subway crime in New York City. The plan includes the deployment of 750 National Guard members and 250 New York State and MTA police officers into the subway system. Additionally, specialized teams will be formed to handle cases involving individuals exhibiting signs of mental illness. This move comes after the recent slashing of a conductor and other high-profile crimes, which have left commuters concerned about their safety.
The deployment of additional officers follows the previous deployment of 1,000 NYPD officers last month to conduct bag checks. Governor Hochul’s plan also calls for individuals deemed too dangerous by a judge to be banned from the subway. She is advocating for a state law that would allow judges to prohibit convicted attackers from riding the subway or buses for up to three years. Hochul is urging district attorneys to collaborate in order to keep repeat offenders out of the transit system.
One such repeat offender is Milton Hamlin, who was recently back in custody after allegedly slashing a man on an A train. Hamlin has been arrested nearly a dozen times since 2005 for crimes including assault, robbery, and is also a Level 3 sex offender. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of judges exercising their discretion to hold repeat offenders accountable.
Although transit crime in February showed a decrease of more than 15% compared to February 2023, there was a 45% increase in January, largely due to grand larcenies. NYPD Transit Chief Michael Kemper revealed that arrests in the subway system have increased by 45% this year, with 3,000 arrests made in the first two months alone, many of which involved repeat offenders. Kemper expressed concern over the frequent release of arrested individuals within a day or two.
Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Transit Chief Michael Kemper have been working to address subway crime and make riders feel safe. They credit the recent decrease in subway crime to increased police deployments and hundreds of additional officers underground. The officials are also implementing random bag checks and developing high-tech weapons detection systems to confiscate weapons and contraband before they enter the subway.
Governor Hochul plans to enhance security measures within the subway system by installing cameras in every car and conductor booth by the end of the year. These measures, along with the increased police presence, aim to create a safer environment for commuters.
While Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams have prioritized combating subway crime, many riders still express concerns about their safety. Commuters like Malik Britton have resorted to protective tactics such as positioning themselves away from the tracks to avoid being pushed onto an oncoming train. Abhijeet Singh, another subway commuter, emphasized the need to constantly watch their surroundings.
The plan proposed by Governor Hochul is seen as a positive step toward addressing subway crime. However, critics argue that it is not a permanent solution. Patrick Hendry, President of the Police Benevolent Association (PBA), commended the governor’s efforts but stressed the need for long-term solutions. Hendry highlighted the understaffing of the NYPD and the increasing number of officers leaving each month.
As Governor Hochul’s five-point plan takes effect, it is hoped that subway crime will continue to decrease, ensuring the safety of millions of commuters in New York City. The deployment of additional officers, enhanced security measures, and collaboration between law enforcement agencies will play a critical role in restoring confidence in the city’s subway system.