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In a city where every penny counts, the New York City subway system is facing a growing crisis of fare evasion, and the very security personnel hired to combat this issue are reportedly turning a blind eye. Recent observations have revealed that private security guards, employed by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), are not only failing to deter fare evaders but are actively assisting them in bypassing the fare gates.
Security guards caught in the act
Reports from the New York Post indicate that guards from Allied Universal Security Services have been seen holding emergency doors open at subway stations, allowing a steady stream of fare evaders to slip through without paying.
This troubling behavior raises questions about the effectiveness of the MTA’s multi-million dollar investment in security services. With an estimated $800 million lost annually due to fare evasion, the stakes are high for both the MTA and honest commuters.
Excuses and justifications
According to Romuald Zampou, an Allied guard, fare evaders often come up with a variety of excuses to justify their actions. From claims of broken MetroCards to assertions that they were told they could pass through, the reasons are as varied as the individuals attempting to evade payment.
Zampou, who works five eight-hour shifts a week for approximately $800, noted that the culture of fare evasion is pervasive, with many commuters simply opting not to pay.
Financial implications for the MTA
The MTA’s decision to hire 1,000 armed and unarmed guards at a cost of $35 million raises eyebrows, especially when the guards themselves are reportedly disengaged from their duties.
Observations at various subway stations reveal that guards often spend their shifts outside smoking or chatting, leaving fare gates unmonitored. This lack of vigilance not only undermines the MTA’s efforts to curb fare evasion but also highlights a broader issue of mismanagement within the agency.
Political fallout and public frustration
As the MTA grapples with its financial woes, state and city politicians have criticized the agency for its handling of a $20 billion budget. The recent comments from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy regarding the MTA’s “financial mismanagement” underscore the urgency of the situation. With fare evasion rampant and security measures failing, the public’s frustration is palpable. MTA spokesperson Kayla Shults emphasized that holding gates open for fare evaders is illegal and unfair to the millions of New Yorkers who pay their fares.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the MTA will address these challenges and restore public trust in its ability to manage the subway system effectively. The need for accountability and a reevaluation of security measures has never been more pressing.
