Transit crime jumps across NYC, with NYPD pointing to cold‑weather factors
According to the NYPD, there were 192 transit crimes reported citywide last month — about 30 more than during the same period last year.
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Commuters across New York City say they are on edge after police reported an increase in crime across the transit system last month.
According to the NYPD, there were 192 transit crimes reported citywide last month — about 30 more than during the same period last year.
Authorities say the spike was largely driven by assaults and nonviolent larcenies and noted that colder temperatures and extreme winter weather may have contributed to the increase.
“I don’t feel safe. I was on the subway and saw some guy reaching into his pocket, making some gestures,” said Audrey Jones, a Highbridge commuter who has relied on public transit for decades.
Jones says she has been riding the subway for 40 to 50 years but now feels more uneasy while traveling through the system.
“I come down the steps and I make sure my back is against the wall,” said Paula, a Soundview commuter who says she remains alert while waiting on subway platforms.
During multiple “Code Blue” cold weather alerts this winter, the city temporarily halted efforts to remove people from the subway system, which police say may have contributed to higher activity underground.
The NYPD says it has since deployed nearly 140 additional officers per day into the transit system as part of its effort to deter crime and reassure riders.
