NYPD, MTA join forces to combat ghost plates in NYC
NYPD, MTA join forces to fight ghost plates in NYC
The NYPD, MTA, and State Police are cracking down on vehicles with ghost plates—obstructed, altered, or fake license plates—in a coordinated operation at the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel. FOX 5's Linda Schmidt has the story.
NEW YORK - Authorities in New York City are ramping up their efforts to remove ghost plates—license plates that are obstructed, altered, or fake.
A coordinated operation involving the NYPD, MTA Police, and New York State Police led to several arrests on Monday.
What we know:
The crackdown is part of an ongoing initiative to address the growing issue of ghost plates on city roads.
According to officials, this is the 65th operation of its kind since March 2024, targeting vehicles with plates that are obscured, tampered with or missing.
The NYPD said that in 2024 there were more than 740 arrests for ghost plates, and more than 3,400 vehicles seized.
The MTA reported at least five arrests Monday, including one individual accused of having a fake New Jersey license plate, a suspended registration, and numerous unpaid tolls and parking tickets. The suspect’s car was also seized during the crackdown.
What they're saying:
"From the NYPD's standpoint, this is a threat to our public safety and traffic safety," said Deputy Chief Thomas Alps of the NYPD's Transportation Bureau.
"Ghost plates are not just a toll problem, these people are also evading school cameras, speed cameras, and they're also committing crimes in our city," said Catherine Sheridan, President of MTA Bridges & Tunnels.
Big picture view:
Ghost plates are not just an issue of unpaid tolls—they pose significant safety risks and are often linked to criminal activities.
Authorities say they hope that continued enforcement will deter drivers from using fake or obscured plates and make New York City roads safer for everyone.
The Source: Information in this story was collected by FOX 5 staff and reporters in the field.