Readers React: How to keep Metro riders safe from harassment

To the editor: Safety on Metro trains and buses must be a priority, and riders must be able to call immediately for help when they feel threatened. Therefore, it is imperative that Wi-Fi be available on buses and trains, and particularly in subways. (“Reports of sexual harassment by Metro commuters could hinder efforts to boost ridership,” Aug. 25)

Furthermore, an easily dialed, dedicated telephone and text number should be available and posted prominently at several places on every bus and train section. The serial number of the vehicle should be next to the contact number so that the location can be reported and tracked immediately by Metro computers.

Law enforcement officers may not be able to be on every subway train, but, with this reporting system, at least there would a chance they could be at the next stop to greet harassers and other dangerous people.

Lloyd A. Dent, Northridge

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To the editor: I’ve been riding Metro on and off for some time. I have been trying to get my 17-year-old daughter to do so as well. After reading about harassment on buses and trains, I think I will cease this effort.

There should be a police officer at every station to eyeball potential troublemakers. A security guard should be on each train walking it from end to end. The cameras are nice, but who is watching the video?

After waiting a lifetime for this system to be built, the operation of it is embarrassing.

Paul Zimmelman, Marina del Rey

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