MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Since last year, we’ve installed thousands of new cameras within stations and on-board trains – adding to our already-vast network of 10,000 devices, which have been proven time and time again to lead to police apprehensions and even deter crime. And now, we’re moving forward with cameras in conductor cabs to address the risks our brave conductors and operators are facing. We can’t afford to not act. The transit system is too important to the City and region to allow the perception of safety, or lack of it, to scare people away.”
State Police Acting Superintendent Steven G. James said, “I commend Governor Hochul for putting forth this comprehensive plan to improve the safety of our subway system. Collectively, with our law enforcement partners, we can tackle this problem and ensure a safer New York for all.”
MTAPD Chief of Operations Thomas Taffe said, “I know that a focus on reducing the fear of crime is as important as reducing crime itself. We now have officers at commuter hubs in all five boroughs, officers working overnight clearing trains, working with homeless outreach partners across different agencies in all corners of the city. We’re focused on using data to respond to the issues that most affect riders – feelings of disorder, fare evasion, and persons acting violently in emotional distress.”
Adjutant General of the New York National Guard Major General Ray Shields said, “The service members of the New York National Guard are always ready to assist our partners as they ensure the safety and security of our fellow citizens.”
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said, “Protecting New Yorkers and their right to travel freely on our subways and buses is a top priority. We hold those who commit crimes in our transit system accountable, and will continue to work with our law enforcement and government partners on this important issue.”
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said, “New York’s subways are the beating heart that keeps our city moving, and the safety of riders and MTA employees is a top priority for my office. The comprehensive plan proposed by Governor Hochul will help us achieve that goal and I thank her for the leadership and ongoing commitment to public safety. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with all of our partners to fight crime on public transportation.”
Staten Island District Attorney Michael E. McMahon said, “A safe and fully functioning mass transit system is indispensable to life in and around New York City. For the tens of thousands of Staten Islanders who rely on our local and express buses, ferries and the ferry terminals, and the Staten Island Railroad to get to work, to school, to care for a loved one or to merely run their daily errands, they deserve nothing less than the safest experience possible. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for the efforts being announced today; it is welcome news for all Staten Islanders. My team is eager to work with these new personnel and new technologies to both keep repeat violent offenders off our buses and trains, and to build the strongest possible cases against those who break the law and harm our quality of life. In the year ahead, I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Hochul on vital public safety priorities like this not only in the New York City region, but across the state on behalf of the District Attorneys Association of New York as well.”
Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark said, “I appreciate Governor Hochul’s prioritizing transit safety, and I look forward to working with her and all stakeholders to make sure our commuters are not fearful to ride the subways, buses and Metro North, and our hardworking transit employees are safe on the job. The transportation system is the lifeblood of the city. My Office works with the NYPD and I welcome a partnership with state law enforcement as well to increase safety and security, and to hold people accountable for crime and provide services for those who need them.”
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