Extension: Audit criticizes security in NYC subway, NYPD increases patrols in Central Park after increase in crime

NEW YORK (WABC) — In this edition of Extra Time, we take a closer look at the young migrants behind the recent spike in robberies in Central Park, the New York Police Department’s increased police presence, and the MTA being criticized in a scathing federal audit for its subway security measures.

As for the weather, Thursday will be partly cloudy with low humidity, but there is a chance of an afternoon shower in the north.

Other headlines from Wednesday’s show:

Audit criticizes MTA

In an audit report obtained by Eyewitness News, the Federal Transit Administration accuses the MTA of neglecting underground safety, citing a growing number of incidents in New York City’s transit system that endanger passengers and employees.

The FTA identified 38 near misses involving transit workers, trains and passengers on the subway system in 2023. That’s a 58% increase from 2022 and 65% from 2021.

These incidents, the report concludes, “reflect a combination of unsafe conditions and practices such that there is a significant risk of death or injury that requires action.”

NYPD in Central Park

Young migrants living in city shelters are believed to be behind the recent spike in robberies at the southern end of Central Park. According to the New York Police Department, they surround their victims and use “wolf pack violence” to rob them.
NYPD officers are preparing to deploy drones in Central Park by the end of the month. The drones will respond to incidents in less than a minute and track suspects until police arrive on the scene.

Until then, an additional 40 police officers will be deployed in Central Park starting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday evening to specifically target the hours when most robberies take place.

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