Subway Murders Continue to Plague New York City, Mayor Adams Faces Criticism

In a distressing pattern that seems to repeat itself, another innocent commuter has lost their life in a subway murder in New York City. Mayor Adams, who pledged to tackle subway crime when he took office, is now facing mounting criticism as the city grapples with a surge in violent incidents underground.

The recent murder at the busy 125th Street Lex station mirrors the tragic death of Michelle Go, who was pushed in front of a train just weeks after Adams assumed office. Despite promises of increased police presence and improved mental health services, the subway system continues to be plagued by senseless acts of violence.

Since 2020, the risk of becoming a victim of violent crime per subway ride has remained consistently double the pre-2020 levels, indicating a persistent problem that requires a long-term solution. However, Mayor Adams has failed to prioritize the allocation of resources to address this issue adequately.

Although additional police shifts were temporarily implemented in response to a surge in subway murders, they were not sustained, leading to a resurgence in violent incidents. The recent announcement of “Operation Fare Play” to crack down on fare evasion is seen by many as a mere theatrical gesture, lacking the necessary long-term strategy to combat subway crime effectively.

While the police have made more arrests, the criminal justice system’s shortcomings have become apparent. Repeat offenders, like Carlton McPherson, who was arrested multiple times within a year, continue to roam the streets despite their dangerous behavior. The lack of secure mental health treatment for individuals like McPherson, who clearly exhibit signs of mental illness, raises questions about the effectiveness of existing policies.

Mayor Adams must address these pressing issues urgently. A larger transit police force, permanently stationed in the subway system, is necessary to ensure the safety of commuters. Additionally, the mayor must allocate sufficient funds for mental health care and advocate for legislative changes that allow judges to keep dangerous individuals off the streets.