New York City’s Tech-Based Subway Weapon Detection Program Faces Criticism from Legal Aid Society

The mayor and police commissioner of New York City, Eric Adams and Edward Caban, announced a new technology to detect weapons in the subway system. They stated that the pilot program could begin in a few months. Mayor Adams mentioned that the impact and use policy for electromagnetic weapons detection systems will be published soon, starting a 90-day waiting period before the technology can be tested in the city to enhance safety for New Yorkers.

However, their announcement was met with criticism from the Legal Aid Society, which called the city’s approach to public safety misguided and costly. The group expressed concerns about false alarms and the potential for panic induced by gun detection systems. Instead of relying on technology, they urged the city to focus on addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of access to mental health resources.

Transit crime in the city has seen a 4% increase this year compared to last year, and an 8% increase compared to 14 years ago. To address these concerns, the NYPD announced plans to assign 800 additional officers for a week-long crackdown on subway fare evaders. Additionally, the city is hiring more clinicians to provide assistance to those dealing with mental illness. The efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve safety and security in the subway system.