New Federal Task Force Aims to Tackle Violence on Public Transport
Washington – Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Tom Tillis (R-NC) have introduced a bill aimed at addressing violence in public transport systems, shortly after a young woman was tragically stabbed to death on a light rail in Charlotte, North Carolina. This initiative will create a federal task force focused on reporting violent incidents to Congress.
The Transit Crime Reporting Act proposes a 12-member task force, led by a federal transport administrator. Their goal is to compile reports over the next two years, providing actionable recommendations for reducing violence on public transport systems.
The four-page document also emphasizes that the Congressional Committee overseeing public transport must ensure that all crimes occurring in federally funded systems are reported to a national transport database.
“Every American deserves to travel freely—whether for work, school, or leisure—without fearing for their safety,” stated Scott, who chairs the Senate’s Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
“This legislation aims to increase transparency, identify effective solutions, and allow communities to rely on safe and secure transit options.”
On August 22, Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, was killed in a light rail incident by a homeless man who had previously been sentenced to five years for armed robbery.
DeCarlos Brown Jr., who claims to suffer from delusional schizophrenia, faces federal charges for his actions in the transit system and has a troubling history with law enforcement, having been arrested 14 times prior and released on cashless bail—a practice criticized by President Trump and other Republicans.
The 34-year-old is also charged with first-degree murder in connection with the stabbing.
Tragically, Zarutska had fled Ukraine due to the Russian invasion, hoping for a safer life in the U.S. She was on her way home from her job at a local pizzeria when the incident occurred, with Brown sitting just behind her on the light rail.
“The tragic murder of Iryna Zarutska highlighted numerous challenges, particularly safety concerns regarding public transport,” remarked Tillis.
“By enhancing the methods we use to track violence on public transport, this bill will enable us to take significant steps toward ensuring that riders in Charlotte and nationwide can travel without fear.”
