On October 21, 2025, New York State Assemblyman William Colton revealed that a group of men at the N Line subway station had been extorting commuters by demanding “one dollar for a free ride,” leading to passengers feeling threatened and causing financial losses for the MTA.
Assemblyman Colton stated that he received reports earlier this month from commuters, indicating that at the Bay Parkway subway station on the N Line, on the Ocean Avenue side, several men had gathered and were asking passengers for one dollar as a “fare” in exchange for allowing them to enter the station without paying.
After receiving the reports, Assemblyman Colton personally went to the scene during the morning rush hour to verify the situation and confirmed that there were indeed five men actively operating near the emergency exit. They would open the emergency exit door for commuters, allowing them to enter without swiping their cards and then demanding payment of one dollar. Many passengers informed him that these men chose to gather at exits without staff present, with the situation having persisted for weeks, forcing many to pay out of fear of harassment in order to pass through.
Upon confirming the situation, Assemblyman Colton immediately contacted the local police precinct, the 62nd Precinct, and the 911 emergency hotline for intervention.
“This situation is absolutely unacceptable,” Assemblyman Colton condemned, “Commuters feel threatened when passing by these individuals, and this should not happen at any public transportation facility. The subway is crucial to the daily lives of residents, and such behaviors not only endanger passenger safety but also result in economic losses for the MTA. Especially with the recent fare increase, such illegal activities will eventually affect the interests of all passengers.”
He urged passengers to dial 911 immediately if they encounter similar situations and to contact his district office (telephone: 718-236-1598) for follow-up assistance.
“If you experience any issues on the subway or in the community, please call or visit our office in person, and my team and I will do our best to assist you,” Colton added.
Assemblyman Colton’s district office is located at 155 Kings Highway, with office hours as follows: Monday to Wednesday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; Thursday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm; Friday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Additionally, he holds a temporary office at FIAO Il Centro (8711 18th Avenue) every Friday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm for residents to come and seek advice.