Violent incidents against TTC passengers were up 46 per cent in 2022 compared to the previous year, as the transit agency continues to address safety concerns.
TTC CEO Rick Leary released his monthly report Wednesday which outlines data from the previous month on ridership, customer experience, diversity and safety and security.
In Dec. 2022, there were 145 violent incidents against passengers in the transit network, up from 100 in Nov. 2022. Overall, there were 1,068 incidents in 2022, a 46 per cent increase from 734 incidents in 2021.
The TTC previously recorded a total of 735 incidents in 2020 and 666 in 2019, according to media reports.
The new data comes as the TTC is dealing with numerous reports of violent assaults within the transit system.
TTC Spokesperson Stuart Green says the organization is concerned about the growing number of attacks on its riders and employees.
“Safety is paramount to all we do and the TTC moves hundreds of millions of trips every year without incident. But we cannot and do not take that for granted,” he said in a statement to Now Toronto on Thursday.
“The recent rise in these serious, higher profile incidents is why we are working closely with the City of Toronto to deploy additional staff teams with expertise in addiction, mental health, housing and security. These teams provide a balanced approach that is responsive, preventative and compassionate,” he added.
In response to the rise of violent incidents in the transit system, last month Toronto police and the TTC announced it was increasing the number of officers and TTC special constables in and around the TTC.
READ MORE: Toronto police increasing presence on TTC amid rise in violent attacks
Police Chief Myron Demkiw announced that at least 80 officers would be on patrol within the transit system every day for the foreseeable future.
The extra officers will focus on reducing victimization while preventing crimes of opportunity and enhancing public safety.
The city also announced it was temporarily adding more than 50 security guards to the TTC, as well as 20 community safety ambassadors.
