Video shows suspect involved in violent robbery on SEPTA platform; stats say crime rates are down
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia police have released video of a man they say was involved in a violent robbery on a SEPTA platform the morning of Thursday, Nov. 9.
The surveillance video released by police shows a 51-year-old man being dragged down the stairs at the SEPTA platform and then getting kicked.
The robbery took place at the SEPTA platform on 15th and Market streets at around 5 a.m.
Police say the 51-year-old was on the SEPTA platform when an unknown man along with others assaulted him and took his cell phone and money.
Those who frequent trains say the violence makes them a little nervous.
"It does [make me nervous] knowing that this is my transportation to school and home – so that does make me feel a little bit nervous and also because I do travel by myself majority of the time. And being a young girl," a SEPTA passenger told CBS Philadelphia.
"I feel pretty safe, except you have to watch your surroundings while on SEPTA," another rider said.
But the most recent statistics suggest crime is declining on SEPTA.
There were 18 aggravated assaults. That's down from 30 during the same time period last year.
They say there were 39 robberies, which is down from 53 last year.
When it comes to felony arrests, they had 53, which was down from 80.
This violence also comes as SEPTA police officers could walk off the job next week.
"Negotiations between SEPTA and the FOTP are ongoing. We are committed to reaching a contract that is fair to SEPTA's police officers, and takes into account the Authority's uncertain funding future," SEPTA's Director of Media Relations Andrew Busch said in a statement.
SEPTA says they do have a contingency plan in the event of a work stoppage and they are focused on the negotiations.
As for the robbery on 15th and Market streets, the suspect involved is described as a man with a beard and mustache. At the time of the crime, he was wearing a blue knit hat and all dark clothing.
If you recognize the suspect or know anything about this crime, police urge you to contact them at 215.686.TIPS (8477).
