National Guard Deployed to NYC Subways

New York City’s subways are inarguably the busiest mode of transportation and ultimately the lifeline of the city—yet its criminal reputation precedes them. It comes as no surprise to many to hear about an uptick in crimes specifically from mid-January to February of this year. For instance, a subway conductor was sliced in the neck in a spontaneous assault and hospitalized in Brooklyn; and that’s only one devastating tragedy.  

Gov. Kathy Hochul has decided to take matters into her own hands to combat these growing attacks and restore confidence in citizens’ safety. Beginning the week of March 6th, she appoints over 1000 members of the National Guard, New York State, and MTA officers to subway stations across the metropolitan area. What’s more, this doesn't even acknowledge the additional thousand city officers NY Mayor Eric Adams had initiated a month prior. They are responsible for thorough bag checks to prevent any fatal weapon from passing through. There's yet to receive any claim from an administrator, however, regarding how long they'll be settled there.

The fuss regarding the matter lies within the community’s poor approval. Tivanie Singhroy, a Sewanhaka model UN student who frequently travels to the city, quotes “an increase in violence necessitates more action. Yet, it simultaneously increases concerns about National Guards because it holds the possibility that more aggressive action could lead to more violent pushback.” However, from an opposing perspective, Ashka Tercius, a sophomore who visits NYC from time to time, believes its a great idea. “You never know,” she says. “Any implementation to prevent raising crime rates can’t hurt.”

So the next time you catch the subway, don't be surprised when you notice a little extra company.