‘Rally for Safety’ calls for permanent police presence at Babylon station

Commuters and lawmakers are gathering tonight to call on the MTA to permanently station police officers at the Babylon Train Station.

News 12 Staff

May 10, 2019, 9:18 PM

Updated 1,904 days ago

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Commuters and lawmakers are gathering tonight to call on the MTA to permanently station police officers at the Babylon Train Station.
The push comes after commuters complained about panhandlers and drug dealers at the station.
Chris Paolillo, of West Babylon, first complained to lawmakers back in November. In response, the MTA added uniformed and plainclothes police officers. But Paolillo says the MTA police presence has been spotty.
“We shouldn't take the railroad…and have to worry about the environment, and really look over our shoulder constantly,” says Paolillo.
State Assemblyman Mike LiPetri organized the “Rally for Safety” at the station for 6 p.m.
“What we're requesting is permanent police presence. That means around the clock patrols…so that our residents can feel safe,” he says.
“The LIRR and MTA police take very seriously the safety of its customers while on our trains as well as while in our stations,” an LIRR spokesperson said in a statement. “Senior LIRR and MTA police officials have been working with local elected officials regarding Babylon Station, and have taken several steps to increase police presence there, which has proven effective. We look forward to continuing the dialogue with this community to ensure that all LIRR customers feel safe and at ease while using our facilities.”
 
 


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