Toronto’s police chief is vowing to add extra police officers to the TTC, after a series of high-profile violent incidents on the transit system.
“In recent weeks we have been actively increasing our high visibility patrols within our transit system. However, it is clear more can be done to enhance the safety and security of transit users,” Police Chief Myron Demkiw said during a Thursday afternoon press conference at Toronto Police Headquarters.
Toronto police aim to have approximately 80 police officers deployed at transit locations across the city.
“We must also ensure that our city’s transit workers who perform a vital service for all of us are able to come to work each and every day knowing that they will have a safe working environment,” he said.
The announcement comes after several violent incidents on the TTC.
On Tuesday, a 23-year-old woman was stabbed while riding the Spadina streetcar.
Police also released security video of a man wanted in a violent purse snatching at Broadview station.
Photo of the purse snatcher which was released by Toronto Police earlier today, taken moments before the incident at Broadview station on Monday. Photo credit: Toronto Police Service
Police say on Monday night, the man entered the station and waited at the bottom of the stairs.
When a woman approached, police say the suspect grabbed her purse, causing the victim to fall to the floor.
Incidents like that have riders like Cheryl Thompson concerned for her safety.
“It could be anyone who gets assaulted, it could be me, and that’s horrible. I worry for the elders too,” she said.
Thompson urged the TTC to take action to protect the public when riding.
“Maybe they need to hire employees to patrol each subway car. It’s pretty sad they have to do that, but people shouldn’t be assaulted in the first place,” she said.