Last week, my office convened a coordination meeting with NYPD Transit, the 78th Precinct, and the Brooklyn District Attorney regarding the ongoing harassment impacting riders at the 7th Avenue and 15th Street F/G stations. We know there have been multiple reports of riders, particularly women, being harassed and spat on. This is frightening and unacceptable. No one should have to change their commute to avoid harassment.

I want to share where things stand.

There has been a pattern of incidents over time involving the same individual. When this person was receiving court-mandated mental health services last year, reported incidents decreased significantly. Those services ended in early December 2025. Reports have increased again in recent months, with a noticeable spike in February. This underscores that real safety requires both accountability and access to supportive services. My office is following up with service providers to understand what next steps may be possible. 

We have also heard questions on why the individual has not been arrested for spitting. Public transit is a public space, and enforcement actions like arrests or bans require legal thresholds and due process. Under the law, spitting alone is generally treated as a violation-level offense unless there are additional factors such as threats, physical contact, or other conduct that raise the charge. Law enforcement and prosecutors rely on formal reports and evidence so the District Attorney can evaluate potential charges and courts can determine next steps. That is why detailed reporting from victims and witnesses can make a critical difference in what enforcement options are available. NYPD currently has patrol coverage at both stations, including plainclothes officers, with coordination above ground. We are pushing for additional presence during peak commute hours. 

If you experience or witness harassment, call 911 right away and share as much detail as possible, including any verbal threats, sexual harassment, or physical contact. You can also file a report with NYPD Transit District 30 at 88 Schermerhorn Street. My office can help connect victims with NYPD if support is needed. Please do not engage directly with the individual. You may also notify my office so we can continue coordinating with the relevant agencies.

Everyone deserves to travel safely and with dignity. I will continue to press every available enforcement and intervention option with our agency partners.