Toronto Police increase presence across TTC following reports of violence

Amid the recent reports about the violence in Toronto city transit, The Toronto Police have increased their presence at TTC locations across the city.

Toronto’s transit is expected to see about 80 police officers deployed across the TTC network daily, Police Chief Myron Demkiw stated at a press conference Thursday alongside Mayor John Tory, and TTC CEO Rick Leary.

“In recent weeks, we have been actively increasing our high-visibility patrols within the transit system. However, it is clear that more can be done to enhance the safety and security of transit users,” stated Demkiv on Thursday.

“We know the TTC really is a microcosm of what’s happening across the city right now. And we recognize that there is a bigger society and systemic issue at play here…The issue requires longer-term solutions and the TTC will be at the table with these experts [to address] crime prevention. mental health and addiction and homelessness,” stated TTC CEO Rick Leary, adding that the TTC is not certain about the root cause of the violence erupting on the city transit.

The past few days saw a rise in violence on the city transit network, including a woman being stabbed by a stranger on a streetcar, as well as two TTC operators being chased by an individual reportedly armed with a syringe, according to media reports.