MBTA Campaign Encourages Riders To Report Harassment

BOSTON (CBS) -- The MBTA has launched a campaign encouraging riders to report cases of sexual harassment.

The agency has partnered with area crisis organizations aimed at combating assaults on the transit system.

"One person victimized is one too many, and we are keenly aware that sexual harassment and assault are under-reported crimes," MBTA Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green said in a public statement.

Green says there has not been an uptick in sexual assaults on the T. The T will run ads on its trains and buses starting Friday asking riders to contact the Transit Police if they see or experience harassment.

"Be assured we take these reports with the utmost seriousness, and you will be treated with dignity and respect throughout the reporting and investigatory process," Green said.

The campaign specifically focuses on people with disabilities since they experience sexual assault twice as often as those without disabilities, according to the Boston Center for Independent Living.

"By increasing visibility of an under-addressed issue, we hope to let all riders know that you can make a difference if you intervene when you witness sexual violence. Accessible services are available at BARCC for survivors and those supporting and assisting them," said Shelley Yen-Ewert, director of the MASS Collaboration.

For more information about the campaign, visit www.mbta.com/stopharassment.