Multiple probes launched to investigate Charlotte after light rail stabbing
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North Carolina state auditor Dave Boliek says he will investigate the Charlotte Area Transit System following the Aug. 22 fatal light rail stabbing of 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska.
Why it matters: Boliek's probe will scrutinize the transit system's public safety spending, including its security contracts and budgeting.
Zoom out: USDOT is also investigating Charlotte "over its failure to protect Iryna Zarutska," Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy posted on X.
- "If mayors can't keep their trains and buses safe, they don't deserve the taxpayers' money," Duffy said Monday.
- The investigations come days after surveillance video of Zarutska's fatal stabbing was released, drawing national attention and fueling political debate over urban crime.
The other side: In a statement Monday, Mayor Vi Lyles said CATS security is being "re-deployed" to increase the presence on Blue Line platforms and enforce fares.
- Charlotte police will also patrol "key areas across the transit system," Lyles added.
- CATS plans to recruit nearly 30 more guards over the next few months, per the statement.
The big picture: This is the second time in recent months the Republican auditor has intervened in Charlotte's local government, a Democratic-leaning city.
- Earlier in May, Boliek launched an investigation into the money paid to police chief Johnny Jennings to avoid a potential lawsuit. He says a special report on the city's payment is being released later this week.
What he's saying: "One of the most basic duties a government owes the people is public safety," Boliek said in a press release. "The recent lawlessness and violence that have taken place on Charlotte's public transportation raise serious questions about the security measures in place."
- The release also referenced a March attack on a CATS bus that left a 64-year-old veteran paralyzed from the neck down, and an August assault by multiple people that hospitalized a 57-year-old veteran.
FBI director Kash Patel also spoke out on X Monday, confirming that the bureau has been investigating the "train murder from day one." He added: "Stay tuned."