A recent investigation has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of private security guards hired by New York City’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). These guards, earning as much as $100 an hour, are reportedly sleeping on the job and even helping fare evaders sneak into the subway system without paying.
The guards are part of a private security initiative launched by the MTA to tackle the growing issue of fare evasion, which reportedly costs the agency over $700 million a year. But instead of enforcing rules and ensuring commuter safety, many of these guards have been seen holding emergency gates open for fare beaters and ignoring obvious rule-breakers.
What the Investigation Found
According to a detailed report by the New York Post, multiple private guards stationed at subway entrances across Manhattan were caught doing the opposite of what they were hired to do. In some cases, guards were seen sleeping in their chairs for extended periods. In others, they openly held doors open to allow groups of people to enter without paying.
These guards are not official police officers or MTA employees. They’re hired from private firms like Arrow Security and Professional Security Bureau, and while they are supposed to be a visible deterrent to fare evasion, they don’t actually have the authority to ticket or detain anyone. Their main job is to observe, report, and “deter” — but many riders say they’re doing none of the above.
What the Commuters Are Saying
Riders have been left both frustrated and confused. Many say the presence of the guards is meaningless if they’re not actually stopping rule-breaking. “I saw one guy just wave at a fare evader and let him walk right in,” said a commuter at a Midtown station. “Why are we paying them so much if they don’t even care?”
Another rider described how a group of teens walked right past a guard without paying. “He didn’t even blink,” she said. “He was too busy looking at his phone.”
What MTA Officials Are Saying
The MTA said it is looking into these incidents and is taking the findings seriously. In a statement, an MTA spokesperson said, “We are working closely with our contractors to ensure these guards meet performance standards. Any failure to follow protocol will be addressed.”
Still, critics argue that the entire security program needs a full review. “This is a waste of money,” said Lisa Daglian, executive director of the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA. “We could be using this money more effectively by improving service or hiring more conductors and cleaners.”
What the Numbers Say
The MTA has ramped up spending on private guards as part of a broader effort to reduce fare evasion, which has soared in recent years. According to official MTA data, fare evasion cost the system $285 million in 2022 and is expected to surpass $700 million in 2025 if left unchecked.
The agency has also increased the number of surveillance cameras and real-time monitors in subway stations. But despite these efforts, enforcement is still weak. Only NYPD officers and designated MTA fare inspectors are legally allowed to issue citations, and there aren’t enough of them across the system.
Will There Be Any Change?
New York Governor Kathy Hochul had previously announced plans to improve subway safety, including more surveillance and a larger police presence. But this latest revelation may force the state to rethink its approach.
There are growing calls for more transparency and accountability when it comes to how the MTA uses its budget — especially for expensive programs like this one.
Until then, riders say they just want a system that feels safe, fair, and properly managed. “I’m not against hiring private security,” said one commuter. “But if we’re paying them $100 an hour, the least they can do is stay awake.”
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Jon King is an experienced journalist with 3 years of experience in the field. With a strong background in investigative reporting, Jon is known for his in-depth coverage of crime news, finance news, local news, and USA news. Currently working with Mikeandjonpodcast, Jon brings his sharp investigative skills, where he provides timely updates and analysis on a wide range of topics. His commitment to delivering accurate and impactful news has earned him a reputation for providing insightful and comprehensive stories that resonate with his audience.
