NYPD: New statistics show large increase in transit assaults

The NYPD says felony assaults on the subway are up more than 30% this year. They say most of these felony assaults started as disputes that turned violent.

News 12 Staff

Apr 25, 2022, 9:29 PM

Updated 897 days ago

Share:

The NYPD revealed new statistics Monday showing a large increase over the past year in transit assaults.
The NYPD says felony assaults on the subway are up more than 30% this year. They say most of these felony assaults started as disputes that turned violent.
NYPD Transit Chief Jason Wilcox tells News 12 overall transit crimes -- like larcenies and robberies -- have managed to stay at average levels, but the same cannot be said for felony assaults. He added the NYPD has seen a 33% rise so far this year in the transit system compared to last year.
"We have seen an increase of over 70% of stabbing slashing assaults," Wilcox added. "We have done 113,000 train runs this year, and increase of 34%, enhanced presence, enhanced visibility throughout the system, greater attention to serious quality of life issues."
These latest numbers come as the MTA Inspector General, Elizabeth Keating announced Monday she’s initiating an inquiry into why the cameras were not working properly inside the 36th Street station on April 12 in Sunset Park.
"I believe that we need supervision on these stations and hopefully things will get better for us," said commuter Linda Valentine.
The NYPD say it will continue to focus on the subway safety plan, uniformed patrolling and mitigating quality-of-life issues. The department also plans to keep coordinating with the Department of Homeless Services on issues related to homelessness.