What to know
- A transit worker was setting up a work zone for his team when he was attacked by ten teenagers at SEPTA’s 15th Street station in downtown.
- The attack prompted Brown to call for the resignation of SEPTA Police Chief Thomas Nestel, claiming he cannot keep workers or passengers safe.
- During a press conference, Nestel made it clear that it would not resign, but acknowledged that officials needed more help.
Surveillance video shows a crowd of teenagers attacking a SEPTA worker, prompting the Traffic Workers Union to call for the resignation of the SEPTA police chief, citing safety concerns.
The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. Monday at SEPTA’s 15th Street station in Center City. A transit worker was setting up a work zone for his crew when he was attacked by ten teenagers.
Surveillance video shows a group of teens attacking a SEPTA worker Monday night at the 15th Street station in downtown.
“There were no words,” said Willie Brown, president of TWU Local 234. “There was no reason. They just attacked him and sometimes it’s almost like they get points or they have this game where they just jump on someone. ”
The worker is recovering. But the attack prompted Brown to call for the resignation of SEPTA Police Chief Thomas Nestel, claiming he cannot keep workers or passengers safe.
“We have lost control of the subway system,” Brown said. “I think it’s the leadership of the police department. I don’t think he has confidence in his own police force. “
During a press conference on Thursday, Nestel condemned the attack and called it “scandalous behavior.” He also made it clear that he will not resign. With the increase in crime in the SEPTA system this year, Nestel also recognized that its officers need help.
“We are certainly taking steps to try to address that,” Nestel said. “Over the past month, discussions have been held about hiring a security guard company to post guards on some platforms to maintain visibility and serve as observation and reporting posts.”
In addition to potentially adding 60 unarmed guards, Nestel advocated a police policy of identifying suspects, but waiting for arrest until a more comprehensive case is presented.
“It’s not about catch and release. It is a delayed arrest process, ”said Nestel. “You know, I don’t want the public to think that we’re catching people and giving them a hug and saying, ‘Hey, you know, go your way.’
Frequent SEPTA users like Darla Cobb of Southwest Philadelphia want solutions.
“It’s terrible down here. It’s dangerous down here, ”Cobb said. “Unbelievable and I’m scared for my life, because that could be me.”
No arrests have been made in the attack. Officials continue to investigate.