New York Governor Kathy Hochul has taken decisive action to address the surge in crime in New York City’s subways by deploying the state National Guard. Hochul announced a comprehensive five-point plan aimed at curbing criminal activities in the subway system. The plan involves deploying 750 National Guard members to assist the New York Police Department with bag searches at busy train stations.
Governor Hochul emphasized the deterrent effect of this measure, stating, “For people who are thinking about bringing a gun or knife on the subway, at least this creates a deterrent effect. They might be thinking, ‘You know what, it just may not be worth it because I listened to the mayor and I listened to the governor and they have a lot more people who are going to be checking my bags.'”
This move comes as part of a broader effort by Governor Hochul’s office to address subway crime. The governor’s plan includes a legislative proposal to ban individuals convicted of assaulting a subway passenger from trains for three years. Additionally, cameras will be installed in conductor cabins to protect transit workers. The plan also emphasizes better coordination with district attorneys to prevent repeat offenders and allocates an additional $20 million for expanding subway outreach programs.
Mayor Eric Adams of New York City also announced plans to increase police presence in the subways. The city aims to tackle a nearly 20% increase in crime levels during the first two months of 2024 compared to the same period last year, according to NYPD data cited by the New York Post. The rise in crime includes incidents such as grand larcenies, felony assaults, and robberies.
Recent incidents have underscored the urgent need for action. In January and February alone, there were three homicides reported in the subway system. Disturbingly, other incidents involved a 64-year-old postal worker being kicked onto the tracks at Penn Station, a 20-year-old woman bravely fighting off an attacker who punched her in the face and attempted to rape her in Queens, and a subway conductor being slashed in the neck while leaning out of the cabin window at a Brooklyn station.
Governor Hochul’s deployment of the National Guard and the collaborative efforts between her office and Mayor Adams demonstrate a strong commitment to public safety. By implementing measures such as bag searches and increased police presence, they aim to restore a sense of security to New York City’s subways. The decisive action taken by both leaders is a clear message that crime will not be tolerated, and the safety of commuters and transit workers is of paramount importance.
In conclusion, Governor Hochul’s deployment of the National Guard to address the surge in crime in New York City subways marks a significant step towards enhancing public safety. Through a comprehensive five-point plan, which includes bag searches, increased police presence, and legislative proposals, the governor aims to curb criminal activities and protect commuters and transit workers. With the collaboration of Mayor Adams and ongoing efforts to coordinate with district attorneys and expand outreach programs, New York City is taking a proactive stance against subway crime. The actions taken by these leaders send a resolute message that the safety and well-being of the city’s residents remain a top priority.