Governor Kathy Hochul reveals a plan to deploy 1,000 law enforcement officers, mostly National Guard members, to bolster security in the New York City subway system.
The decision comes in response to recent alarming incidents, including attacks on both passengers and subway employees.
Boost Security Measures with 1,000 Officers
Governor Hochul announced that the deployment will include 750 National Guard officers, along with 250 state and MTA police officers. Their responsibilities will encompass patrolling, conducting bag checks, and deterring criminal activity in some of the city’s busiest transit stations.
Governor Hochul emphasized the attacks that have occurred recently at a news conference and stated that she is determined to confront the problem. A 64-year-old man who was kicked into the tracks at Penn Station, a 27-year-old passenger who was slashed in what appeared to be a homophobic attack, and a subway conductor named Alton Scott who was stabbed in the neck while he was leaning out of the train were among the events reported.
While these incidents are deeply concerning, statistics reveal a relatively modest increase in crime in transit spaces compared to the previous year.
Governor Hochul’s Handling of Criticisms and Concerns
The New York Police Department reported 388 crimes in the subway system from the beginning of the year through March 3, compared to 343 during the same period in the previous year. Over a 20-year span, crime rates in transit spaces have remained relatively stable, with 2020 being an exception.
However, the deployment plan has faced criticism from organizations such as the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU). They argue that it represents a disproportionate reaction that may result in racially biased policing.
NYCLU Executive Director Donna Lieberman voiced concerns, stating, “These heavy-handed approaches will, like stop-and-frisk, be used to accost and profile Black and Brown New Yorkers.”
Lieberman emphasized the importance of avoiding overreaction to specific incidents and cautioned against misrepresenting them as a crime wave. She expressed skepticism about returning to past policies, calling for more nuanced and data-driven approaches to address safety concerns.
Governor Hochul’s office has yet to provide details on the cost associated with the increased policing and camera installations, leaving questions about the financial impact on New Yorkers unanswered.
