CHICAGO (WTVO) — Violent crime across the Chicago Transit Authority system has surged to its second-highest level since 2015, according to police data, prompting federal officials to consider cutting funding — a move some Illinois lawmakers say could worsen conditions for vulnerable riders.

In the 12 months ending in July, riders reported 2,893 crimes across the CTA, or roughly 2.7 incidents per 100,000 riders. Arrests during that same period dropped significantly, with fewer than one in five crimes resulting in an arrest.

The South Side’s Red Line saw the highest concentration of violence, with more than 3.5 incidents per 100,000 passengers.

The most common offense reported was battery, however, police also confirmed at least four homicides occurred on CTA property during the period.

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