Layla Law-Gisiko, a prominent supporter of New York City’s newly implemented congestion pricing policy, became the latest victim of subway violence on Saturday. Law-Gisiko, a Democrat and president of the City Club of New York, was attacked at the 23rd Street and 5th Avenue subway station, an incident that highlights ongoing concerns about public safety in the transit system.
According to Law-Gisiko’s account on X, the assailant, identified as 45-year-old Timothy Elliot, spat in her hair, shoved her into a wall, and threatened to push her down a flight of stairs. She sustained a bruised ankle and a sore shoulder. Witnesses at the scene stayed with her as she contacted 911. Police officers arrived 25 minutes later, apprehended the suspect, and confirmed his arrest for assault and harassment. Elliot was later released on a desk appearance ticket.
The attack occurred just hours before the implementation of the controversial $9 congestion pricing toll for vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street during peak hours. Law-Gisiko and the City Club had championed the measure, claiming it would reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality by encouraging public transit use.
Effective January 5, the toll operates electronically via E-ZPass or license plate recognition, with reduced rates during off-peak hours and exemptions for vehicles that remain on routes like the FDR Drive and West Side Highway.
Law-Gisiko, originally from Paris and a New York resident for three decades, has been a vocal advocate for transit reform. She co-signed a statement celebrating the congestion pricing initiative, which she described as a transformative step for the city.
However, her personal encounter with subway violence underscores persistent safety issues that critics say make public transportation untenable for many New Yorkers.
The rollout of congestion pricing has already faced backlash for its potential financial strain on working-class residents and its timing amid increasing subway crime. Opponents, including the head of the Transport Workers Union, argue that the city’s transit system remains unsafe, further complicating efforts to shift commuters from private vehicles to public transit.
Law-Gisiko’s experience highlights the disconnect between policy ambitions and on-the-ground realities, raising questions about the city’s readiness to handle the increased reliance on public transportation envisioned by the congestion pricing initiative.
