Transport Union calls for safety reforms for MTA workers
Union leaders say conductors are being told not to defend themselves, even when physically threatened.
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Dozens of members of Transport Workers Union Local 100 packed the Bronx Criminal Courthouse Tuesday, demanding justice and stronger protections after an MTA conductor was slashed in the face while on the job in Longwood last week.
The union says the 36-year-old victim is one of more than 90 MTA workers and police officers attacked so far this year.
“We cannot wait for a transit worker to get killed,” said Tramell Thompson, vice president of the Rapid Transit Operations division. “We keep our sister in our prayers.”
Isaiah Thompson, 29, is facing multiple charges, including assault, harassment and criminal possession of a weapon. He is expected to appear before a grand jury.
Union leaders say conductors are being told not to defend themselves, even when physically threatened.
“The transit authority has taken a position to punish us when we defend ourselves,” Thompson said, urging lawmakers and MTA leadership to take immediate action.
Local 100 is calling for tougher laws, better safety protocols and a clear commitment from MTA CEO Janno Lieber.
“Our sister’s blood is on the hands of these lawmakers if nothing changes,” said Chris Drummond, chair of the C/R-Tower Division.
John J. McCarthy, the MTA's chief of Policy and External Relations said in a statement that “the agency agrees that tougher consequences are needed and pointed to ongoing efforts, including lobbying for stronger penalties, installing 31,000 cameras across the system, and deploying criminal justice advocates to courtrooms.”
