Septa police are offering a reward of up to 1,000 for information leading to the arrest of four suspects in last week’s attack on a Septa employee.
Video transcript
– The attack on a Septa employee in Center City, Philadelphia, has sparked outrage from the Transport Workers Union and prompted the Septa police chief to resign. I have been sent to headquarters tonight as action news reporter George Solis. George, Statistics show that working for Septa in 2021 has become more risky.
George Solis: That’s right, Jim, and Chief also admitted that things haven’t gotten off to a great start so far this year. He defended his administration, saying he had no plans to step down. We want to warn viewers at home that the video you are watching may have some graphic.
Footage released Thursday by the Transport Workers Union, which represents septa transit workers, captured critical moments as one of their unprecedented attacks by teenagers at a 15th Street station in Center City. Septa officials said the brave attack took place around 11:30 a.m. on March 15. An unnamed employee was injured at home and is said to be recovering from a number of injuries.
Willie Brown: He almost lost his senses and was badly injured, but he came along.
Thomas Nestle Shiva: This behavior is completely unacceptable, we do not want our employees or anyone – any of our riders to be a victim of that kind of behavior.
George Solis: Septa Transit Police Chief Thomas Nestle held a press conference after the video was released and called for the union to resign, saying police were not doing enough to protect personnel and riders, from policy to transparency.
Willie Brown: Septa doesn’t want to report this because he gives them a black eye. I think they are trying to keep him happy.
George Solis: Septa data provided to Action News show a general decline in reported incidents against employees and a general decline in issues such as harassment and physical assault between 2019 and 2020, while Chief Nestle said things have been less stable so far in 2021. The epidemic is posting many problems, especially in the field of mental health. He said another challenge, making the case against the perpetrators.
Thomas Nestle Shiva: We need the help of the mental health system. We need the help of the justice system.
George Solis: Trade unions are not the only group that has now been called for a change of leadership.
Try Parham: It’s been almost 22 years and this is the lowest I’ve ever seen.
George Solis: The transit police’s fraternal order has also called for the chief to resign.
Try Parham: It’s coming to mind now and I think it’s just – time.
George Solis: And again, Chief says he has no plans to step down. He also defended the number of officers he currently has, who are also being called into question by the union. He said he plans to add about 60 – security officers – at some of Septana’s heaviest travel terminals. Your Life in Center City Tonight, George Siles, Channel Six Action News. Jim.
– Thank you George.
