Surge in pickpockets, snatches driving subway crime jump: NYPDBy David Meyer
June 27, 2022
A rise in theft drove an overall increase in subway crime in May compared to April, according to newly released NYPD stats.
NYPD Transit Chief Jason Wilcox said an increase in ridership was putting purses, neck chains, phones and other handheld items at greater risk of theft — particularly during the overnight hours.
“We have seen increases in hand snatches, primarily cellphones, but also some neck chains as well, and increases in possible pickpocket incidents,” Wilcox told MTA board members during their Monday transit committee meeting.
May saw 219 total felonies underground — including 108 grand larcenies, 55 felony assaults and 54 robberies, according to NYPD figures. For comparison, in April NYPD reported 176 felonies, including 49 assaults, 47 robberies and 77 grand larcenies.
Wilcox said there has been a “significant” increase of 200% more larceny incidents in the overnight hours “in which riders fall asleep and wake up with items missing.”
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Source:
https://nypost.com/2022/06/27/surge-in-pickpockets-snatches-driving-subway-crime-nypd/
