New York City will test gun detection technology in its subway system to tackle rising crime concerns. This initiative follows a series of criminal incidents within the public transit system.
The New York Times reported that the weapon-detection system, developed by Evolv Technology, is similar to the metal detectors seen at security checkpoints at sporting events and concerts. A spokesperson for NYC Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that a set of mobile scanners would be deployed across various subway stations starting Thursday and Friday for the next month.
Mayor Adams, speaking last week, indicated that the initial implementation of this technology would begin within a few days. He emphasized that this is a pilot program to assess the effectiveness of the gun detection system, adding, “We are not locked into this company and are considering other options.”
NYC spokesperson Amaris Cockfield invited other companies specializing in weapons detection technology to reach out as the city seeks to enhance subway safety.
City officials have deliberately withheld specific locations for the scanners to avoid alerting potential offenders. Mayor Adams noted a 44 percent decrease in subway crime compared to the same week in 2023, following a 20 percent rise at the start of 2024. This drop in crime is attributed to increased law enforcement measures, such as deploying the National Guard for bag checks and bolstering police presence in the subway system.