‘We need to feel safe’

Teen assaulted at SkyTrain station pleads for security

Sheshleen Datt, right, and Sandra Martins-Toner outside Nanaimo SkyTrain station yesterday.

security
>> TransLink spokesman Drew Snider said its police force has increased by 53 per cent since 2006 to 115 officers and the surveillance system will be digital by July.

Published: May 20, 2008 9:01 a.m.

Last modified: May 21, 2008 2:33 p.m.

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A teenager who was recently assaulted outside Nanaimo SkyTrain station said yesterday she’s too scared to take transit and appealed to TransLink to improve safety.

Sheshleen Datt, 18, was attacked on April 29 by six girls who haven’t been charged because video of the assault was erased.

“I can’t do what I used to,” Datt said. “I can’t just go to the mall. I can’t go to work. Someone has to drive me. … People rely on transit and we need to feel safe.”

Datt, NDP MLA Adrian Dix and others affected by violence along the transit line got together at Nanaimo station to gather signatures for a safety petition. It calls for permanent guards and walk-home programs at high-risk stations.

Sandra Martins-Toner, whose son Matthew Martins was killed outside Surrey Central station, said Datt’s story drew painful memories.

“Anytime there’s an assault at a SkyTrain station I’m reminded of (Matthew),” she said, breaking down in tears.

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