Good morning! I’m Jack Connors, Research & Communications Associate at the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA (PCAC).
Despite Secretary Duffy’s dramatics, we’re thrilled to see that crime across the MTA system is down. Crime on subways and buses was down 9% month over month in February and 16% compared to February 2024. The LIRR and Metro-North also saw continued reductions in crime. Violence against employees is down too, 14%, although one assault is one too many.
The data tells a clear story: the Governor’s investment in cameras on every train car is paying dividends; as is her commitment to a cop on every overnight train, with train patrols up 22.3%.
If Secretary Duffy wants transparency, he need only look at today’s committee book. Though perhaps another picture book from Governor Hochul would be more appropriate.
One area of concern is fare evasion arrests and summonses, which are up 100% and 43%, respectively. We’re seeing similar upticks on the railroads. While enforcement is an integral part of the equation when it comes to tackling fare evasion, and it’s good to see it moving in the right direction, we cannot be assured it’s not a crime of poverty until Fair Fares is expanded to 200% of the federal poverty level. Let’s also expand it to the LIRR and Metro-North to ensure riders can access the most affordable and convenient transit option.
Thank you.