In an effort to address concerns over criminal activity, gun detection technology will be tested in the New York City subway system. This decision follows a series of crimes within the public transit system.

As reported by the New York Times, Evolv Technology’s weapon-detection system, similar to metal detectors used at sporting events and concerts, will be deployed. A spokesperson for NYC Mayor Eric Adams mentioned that a mobile set of scanners would be moved from station to station starting Thursday and Friday, continuing for the next month.

Adams stated last week, as noted in the New York Post, that the system “should be rolled out in the next few days to do our initial implementation.” He emphasized that the program is a pilot to evaluate the effectiveness of the gun detection system and mentioned, “And they are looking at other companies as well. We are not locked into this company.”

NYC spokesman Amaris Cockfield said, “We invite companies that specialize in weapons detection technology to contact us as we look to expand how we are keeping New Yorkers safe when riding the subways.”

City officials did not disclose the locations of the scanners to avoid alerting potential offenders. Adams highlighted a 44 percent reduction in subway crime compared to the same week in 2023 when the announcement was made. Despite a 20 percent increase in subway crime at the beginning of 2024, the situation improved with increased law enforcement measures, including deploying the National Guard for bag checks and enhancing law enforcement presence in public transit.