Subway Surfing on the Rise Again: Arrests Up 22% in 2024
A Growing Concern
Data shows that police are arresting more people for subway surfing this year amid a crackdown by the NYPD and the MTA’s ubiquitous awareness campaign.
The NYPD told amNewYork Metro that it has arrested 163 people for subway surfing so far in 2024, a 22% jump from the 138 cuffed in all of 2023.
A Huge Jump from 2022
The numbers in 2023 themselves were a huge jump from 2022; that September, cops had apprehended 200% more people for subway surfing — which is extremely dangerous and often fatal — compared to the same period the year prior.
The MTA’s Campaign
Last year, the MTA launched a new campaign to deter youth from dabbling in the hazardous endeavor. “Ride Inside, Stay Alive” features public address announcements and station advertisements designed and delivered by teens themselves in a bid to speak directly to would-be surfers as peers.
Simultaneously, the transit agency has beseeched big social media companies to take down any subway surfing content that gets uploaded to their platforms. Meanwhile, the NYPD has beefed up its enforcement by deploying to hotspots popular with surfers — particularly along the 7 and J lines, which have long elevated stretches in the outer boroughs.
Dangers of Subway Surfing
So far this year, 5 people have died as a result of subway surfing, compared to 6 in 2023.
“In addition to the education campaign that includes teen-to-teen subway announcements about the dangers of riding outside trains, the NYPD deployed advanced technology and dramatically increased enforcement, helping reduce fatalities vs. the same period last year,” said MTA spokesperson Laura Cala-Rauch.
Conclusion
The rise in subway surfing arrests is a concerning trend, and the MTA and NYPD are taking steps to address it. While the campaign to “Ride Inside, Stay Alive” may be slowing the growth, it is essential to continue raising awareness about the dangers of subway surfing. The loss of life is unacceptable, and it is crucial to take decisive action to prevent it.
Q: Why is subway surfing a significant concern?
A: Subway surfing is extremely dangerous and often fatal. Riders can suffer severe injuries, including brain damage, paralysis, and even death.
Q: How many people have died this year due to subway surfing?
A: As of 2024, 5 people have died as a result of subway surfing, compared to 6 in 2023.
Q: What is the MTA doing to address subway surfing?
A: The MTA has launched an awareness campaign called “Ride Inside, Stay Alive,” which features public address announcements and station advertisements designed and delivered by teens themselves. The agency is also working with social media companies to take down subway surfing content and has increased enforcement, particularly in hotspots popular with surfers.
