New York City is set to implement new technology to detect weapons in the subway system, according to an announcement made by Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban on Thursday. The pilot program is expected to begin in a few months, following a 90-day waiting period after the impact and use policy for electromagnetic weapons detection systems is published.
However, the Legal Aid Society quickly responded to the announcement, criticizing the approach to public safety as “misguided, costly, and creating significant invasions of privacy.” They expressed concerns about the flawed nature of gun detection systems, citing that they often trigger false alarms which could potentially lead to dangerous situations.
Gov. Kathy Hochul and state leaders have also been taking steps to enhance safety in the subway system. The National Guard and State Police have been deployed for random bag checks, while Commissioner Caban has been engaging with riders to hear their concerns. Despite this, transit crime has seen a 4% increase compared to last year and an 8% increase compared to 14 years ago. In addition, the NYPD announced plans to assign 800 more officers for a week-long crackdown on subway fare evaders and is hiring more clinicians to aid people with mental illness.
Overall, New York City is taking proactive measures to enhance safety and security in the subway system amidst concerns and criticisms from various groups about the potential impact and effectiveness of new weapons detection technology.