Transit police are rolling out the second phase of their campaign to stop sexual assaults against women on Metro Vancouver’s transit system.
Transit police have launched a poster warning would-be assailants that “unwanted touching is a crime.”
“It’s time to speak directly to the offenders or would-be offenders and to let them know it’s not OK to assault women or harass them in any way,” Transit Police Chief Doug Lepard said.
READ MORE: Sexual attacks, security gates hot topics at TransLink AGM
Sexual violence on transit systems is rarely reported, but transit police said the first phase of the campaign — an active texting feature — has led to an increase in calls.
Transit police said they solve about two-thirds of all reported sex offences on SkyTrain. High-quality video surveillance on every car and platform has made it easier to track offenders.
Women’s groups have lauded the poster campaign but said more enforcement is needed. Transit police said that is coming, with eight additional officers expected to join their ranks in the months to come.
– With files from Aaron McArthur
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