MTA subway guards are holding doors open for fare beaters, sleeping on the job

The lack of oversight among private security guards hired by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to crack down on fare evasion in New York City subway stations has been brought to light by recent observations. Instead of deterring turnstile jumpers, these guards have been caught enabling fare-beaters by holding emergency doors open to allow them free access.

Allied Universal Security Services, the private security firm contracted by the MTA, has stationed guards at various subway stations to monitor fare evasion. However, reports indicate that these guards have been complicit in allowing commuters to bypass payment by opening emergency doors upon request. Despite their efforts to stop fare evasion, guards like Romuald Zampou have found themselves powerless against determined scofflaws who provide a variety of excuses to justify their actions.

The MTA signed a multi-million dollar contract with Allied Universal Security Services in 2022 to deploy 500 guards to combat fare evasion. With the subway system losing an estimated $800 million annually due to fare evasion, the MTA has invested heavily in private security to address the issue. Armed guards are paid up to $100 per hour, while unarmed guards earn up to $25 per hour, with a 30-minute meal break allowed during each shift.

Despite the significant investment in private security, reports suggest that guards are not always fulfilling their duties effectively. On multiple visits to subway stations, armed guards were nowhere to be found, leaving entrances unattended. Some guards were even seen taking breaks outside the station or engaging in conversations with NYPD officers instead of monitoring fare evasion.

Concerns have been raised about the mismanagement of funds within the MTA, with accusations of ineffective use of resources and lack of oversight in the deployment of private security guards. State and city politicians have criticized the MTA for its financial mismanagement, particularly in light of its request for additional federal funding. The agency has implemented measures such as congestion pricing and fare hikes to address its financial struggles.

In response to the reports of guards facilitating fare evasion, MTA spokesperson Kayla Shults emphasized the illegality and unfairness of holding open gates for riders to enter without payment. While the MTA has taken steps to address fare evasion, including the deployment of private security, concerns remain about the effectiveness of these measures.

Allied Universal Security Services did not respond to requests for comment on the allegations of guards enabling fare evasion. The MTA continues to grapple with the challenge of combating fare evasion while ensuring the integrity of its fare collection system.