'Making safer experiences’ - NYC rolls out weapons detection technology in subways

NEW YORK—On July 26, the New York City Police Department (NYPD) deployed a weapons detection system at the Fulton St. subway station, marking the first time such technology was implemented in the 119-year history of the system. 

Evolv Technology’s AI-powered weapons screening solutions are being used by the NYPD as part of a 30-day pilot program to detect weapons carried by travelers into the Metropolitan Transit Authority's (MTA) subway system. 

“We are honored to have the opportunity to continue our mission to make safer experiences for the New York community, in collaboration with the city,” said Peter George, CEO of Evolv Technology. 

Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber, legal matters, NYPD, explained that straphangers will be chosen to have their bags checked based on a certain count that is set, whether it’s every 10th, 15th, 20th rider, etc. 

While the bag is getting checked, that person walks through the scanner. He/she could decline to get either their bag checked or walk through the scanner, but if they refuse to do both, they will not be allowed to enter the subway. 

Mayor Adams originally announced the 30-day pilot program on March 28 following a rash of subway shootings. Evolv’s scanners were tested at 30 NYC subway stations in the weeks leading up to the July 26 rollout. 

Additionally, in accordance with the Public Oversight of Surveillance Technology (POST) Act, the NYPD was required to disclose the surveillance technology it was using, as well as publish its Impact and Use Policy online for electromagnetic weapons detection systems.

The mayor noted that while Evolv’s weapons detection systems will be utilized during the 30-day pilot program, he encouraged other security companies to reach out and have their weapons detection technology tested in NYC subway stations. 

“We're urging all companies out there that are looking to develop this technology, we want them to reach out to our team because we want the best product for New Yorkers,” Adams said. “Competition is good, and we're going to see some new innovation in this area.” 

As NYC continues its efforts to curb subway violence, Mayor Adams stressed that he would do “everything possible” to protect subway riders. 

“I want to be clear on this - we're going to protect our riders, and this is not typical law enforcement. This is to add on to and leverage technology to prevent shootings in our subways, and this is about preventing mass casualty incidents,” he stated. “I cannot make it any clearer - we have an obligation to keep the people of our city safe, and that is what we are going to do.”