Crime On MBTA Up 16 Percent

New figures show a 16 percent hike in crime on the MBTA so far this year.

The Boston Herald says MBTA police are blaming the double-digit increase on record ridership and a sluggish economy.

This is the second straight year that crime on the T has risen after a record low in 2009.

The Herald says major crimes increased across the board, including a 33 percent rise in pickpockets and a similar surge in bike thefts.