Gov. Hochul Increases National Guard Presence in NYC Subways for Holiday Safety

The deployment brings the total to 1,000 troops as officials report mixed progress in reducing subway crime.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the addition of 250 more National Guard troops to patrol the New York City subway system during the holiday season, raising the total to 1,000.
The deployment is part of a broader safety strategy launched in March, which also includes increased police presence, bag checks, and expanded surveillance camera coverage in subway cars and stations.
Officials report a 10% decrease in subway crime since March and a 6% year-to-date reduction in major crimes, though felony assaults and murders have seen significant increases compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Hochul emphasized the psychological impact of the National Guard's presence, stating that it provides a sense of safety for riders, especially during the anticipated holiday surge in subway use.
Critics have questioned the effectiveness of the strategy, noting that National Guard troops lack arrest powers and highlighting ongoing concerns about violent incidents within the transit system.