Transportation Secretary Condemns New York Officials as Subway Crime Concerns Rise

On Wednesday, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed strong criticism of New York Governor Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, accusing them of overlooking safety issues in New York City’s subway system. Duffy’s comments came in the wake of alarming reports regarding recent violence affecting commuters.

In a post on X, Duffy highlighted the discrepancy between official assurances of safety and the reality faced by many riders. He stated, “The @MTA & @GovKathyHochul continue to say NYC subways are perfectly safe. Meanwhile, criminals continue to terrorize innocent New Yorkers. We’re fighting to make commuting safe again.” His remarks underscore a growing frustration with public safety on the transit system.

Recent Violent Incidents Stir Public Fear

Recent months have seen a surge in violent incidents that have heightened fears among subway riders. Notably, a horrific attack in December involved a 57-year-old woman who was allegedly burned alive by an illegal migrant from Guatemala. This shocking event sent ripples of fear throughout the city.

Further compounding these concerns, on New Year’s Eve, another troubling incident occurred when a New York City man was charged with attempted murder for allegedly pushing a 45-year-old man onto the subway tracks. Such acts of violence have raised serious questions about the adequacy of safety measures currently in place.

Increasing Crime Rates Raise Alarm

As the year progressed, statistics revealed a troubling trend. In 2024, subway felony assaults rose significantly, and homicides doubled to a troubling total of ten. Although overall subway crime reportedly decreased by 5.4% according to NYPD sources, the rise in violent crime remains a pressing concern.

Duffy has previously communicated his concerns to the MTA in a letter sent in March, emphasizing the need for substantial improvements to safety and security within New York City’s sprawling transit system. He warned that failure to adequately address crime would lead to federal funding cuts.

Calls for Accountability and Action

The Transportation Secretary’s letter requested detailed data on issues such as fare evasion, worker assaults, customer assaults, and the frequency of police patrols. He argued that systemic problems demand immediate attention, especially as cities grapple with rising crime rates.

In his correspondence, Duffy noted, “The trend of violent crime, homelessness, and other threats to public safety on one of our nation’s most prominent metro systems is unacceptable. After years of soft-on-crime policies, our Department is stepping in to restore order.” This response signals a significant federal initiative to enhance security in public transit.

Duffy also pointed out that commuters are increasingly frustrated and fearful. He stated, “Commuters are sick and tired of feeling like they have to jeopardize their safety to get to work, go to school, or to travel around the city.” His commitment to ensure federal tax dollars are used effectively aims to bring about a safer commuting experience for all.

Questions Remain About Funding and Oversight

The MTA, which receives billions of dollars in federal funding, faces scrutiny over how it allocates these resources to enhance safety protocols. Duffy’s letter also called for transparency so that taxpayers can see how funds are being utilized to meet their safety and security needs.

Despite these pressing issues, the responses from the DOT, MTA, and Governor Hochul’s office have been notably absent. The lack of immediate comment on these serious concerns raises further questions about the commitment to addressing crime and enhancing safety in the system.

A Collective Responsibility to Ensure Safety

As officials grapple with these challenges, a collective responsibility emerges among city leaders, advocacy groups, and the community. Assessing the effectiveness of current measures and implementing comprehensive strategies will be crucial as the city moves forward.

Duffy’s assertions are more than just political rhetoric; they reflect a deep-seated determination to restore order in a public transit system vital to millions of New Yorkers. As crime rates in subways become a more prominent concern, the call for action resonates strongly among both officials and the public alike.

In the face of mounting violence and safety concerns, collaboration between state officials, law enforcement, and community stakeholders is essential. Ensuring the safety of commuters should be a top priority for New York City, and tangible actions must follow the rhetoric.

In summary, as Sean Duffy amplifies calls for improved safety measures in New York City’s subway system, the impact of crime on commuter confidence is undeniable. The need for effective governance and accountability remains paramount as the city navigates its way toward a safer public transport environment.

Report contributed by Fox News Digital staff.