Transit Report: Crime Up in 2014 on Metro-North

A transit report says crime has risen since last year on Metro North Railroad, but officials of the commuter line and an advocate say riders are safe.

A report released on Monday by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority says 107 felonies were reported through August compared with 91 for the first eight months of 2013.

The Connecticut Post reports that 29 of the 72 grand larcenies were aboard trains. Five involved shoplifting at stores in Grand Central Terminal and 17 involved the theft of railroad property, including tools and copper.

Spokeswoman Marjorie Anders said most are crimes involving property, not individuals. She said the trains, stations and Grand Central are safe.

James Cameron, head of the Commuter Action Group, says much of the crime is theft of personal belongings, particularly when commuters fall asleep.