SEPTA Crime Drops to Decade Low in 2025, Transit Agency Reports
PHILADELPHIA—Serious crime on SEPTA, Philadelphia’s regional transit authority, declined to its lowest level in a decade in 2025, according to a new report released by the agency. The report highlights a 6% reduction in serious crimes compared to 2024, with gun violence decreasing even more sharply by 33%. This marks a significant improvement from the peak of crime during the COVID-19 pandemic, a trend officials attribute to increased police staffing and enhanced enforcement strategies.
Key Crime Reductions and Challenges
Seven out of eight major crime categories saw declines in 2025, including aggravated assaults and thefts. However, robberies were the only category to increase year over year. SEPTA officials emphasized that the overall downward trend is a positive sign, though challenges remain in addressing specific types of crime.
Gun Violence and Aggravated Assaults
The 33% decrease in gun violence is particularly notable, as it reflects a concerted effort by SEPTA Transit Police to address weapons-related incidents. Aggravated assaults also saw a reduction, indicating that the agency’s increased presence and enforcement tactics are having an impact.
Robberies on the Rise
Despite the overall improvement, robberies increased in 2025. SEPTA officials are analyzing this trend to determine if it requires additional targeted interventions. Deputy Chief Jim Zuggi of SEPTA Transit Police stated, “If you commit any crime on SEPTA, we’re gonna track you right to where you live,” underscoring the agency’s commitment to holding offenders accountable.
Strategies for Crime Reduction
The success in reducing crime can be attributed to several key strategies implemented by SEPTA, including increased police staffing, the installation of new technology, and stepped-up enforcement of quality-of-life violations and fare evasion.
Expanded Police Force
SEPTA has bolstered its police force, which has played a crucial role in deterring and addressing criminal activity. The additional personnel allow for more frequent patrols and quicker responses to incidents, creating a safer environment for riders.
Quality-of-Life Enforcement
Citations for quality-of-life violations rose by 48% in 2025, with over 17,000 tickets issued. Nearly half of these—8,400—were for fare evasion. SEPTA officials believe that addressing minor infractions helps maintain order and deters more serious crimes. Zuggi added, “If you’re going to fare evade, if you’re going to commit any type of disorder on our trains, you’re gonna meet a police officer and we’re tell you what’s expected of your behavior when you ride our system.”
Fare Gates and Infrastructure Upgrades
SEPTA is on track to install over 200 full-height fare gates at 14 stations by summer 2026, further reducing opportunities for fare evasion. These gates, along with other infrastructure improvements like the new Wissahickon Transit Center, are helping to enhance the overall safety and security of the transit system.
Rider Perspectives on Safety
Riders’ perceptions of safety vary, though many acknowledge the improvements. Marie Gunderman of Overbrook noted, “It’s about 50/50. It depends on the areas and personal opinions.” Princess Bond of North Philadelphia expressed a degree of caution, saying, “I try to mind my own business and the Lord takes care of me,” but added, “They’re probably right. As long as you’re not traveling around 12 a.m., I think it’s pretty safe.”
Neferteri Raynor of North Philadelphia highlighted the positive impact of infrastructure improvements, stating, “It makes me feel better and proud of actually getting on the bus.”
Targeted Outreach and Future Plans
SEPTA continues to focus on specific groups, including juveniles, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those with mental illness, through outreach and support programs. Zuggi emphasized that these groups remain a priority for the department.
Looking ahead, SEPTA leaders expect to adjust strategies as crime trends evolve but remain confident in their progress. They believe the combination of increased enforcement, technological upgrades, and community outreach is moving the transit system in a positive direction.
Conclusion
The 2025 crime report from SEPTA is a testament to the agency’s efforts to improve safety and security for its riders. While challenges persist, the downward trend in serious crimes is a encouraging sign that SEPTA is on the right track.
