New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the New York Police Department (NYPD) have announced plans to launch a pilot program aimed at increasing safety on the city’s subway system. The program will utilize new technology to detect weapons carried by riders, with the NYPD initiating a mandatory 90-day waiting period before testing and implementation. During this time, the NYPD will identify companies with expertise in weapons detection technology and launch the program in select subway stations to assess its effectiveness.
In addition to the NYPD’s efforts, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is also taking steps to address rising subway crime rates. The MTA is investing in more clinicians to support individuals suffering from severe mental illness through a pilot program aimed at introducing new technology for firearm detection in transit systems. The agency is also hiring clinicians for the expansion of the Subway Co-Response Outreach Teams (SCOUT), which was launched last year in partnership with the state to connect individuals with severe untreated mental illness to mental health care services.
Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of keeping New Yorkers safe on public transportation, stating that it is crucial for New York City to remain the safest big city in America. By implementing innovative weapons detection technology and investing in additional mental health resources, these measures aim to create a safer environment for commuters and maintain public confidence in New York’s subway system.
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