BPD issues warning about cab dangers

(Found via Bostonist) Evidently the incident last week where a Northeastern Student was kidnapped by an off-duty taxi driver and sexually assaulted was just the latest in a recent rash of cab related assaults.

The Boston Police Department released this community alert today.
BOSTON POLICE INVESTIGATE
SEXUAL AND INDECENT ASSAULT INCIDENTS
Officers Remind Community Members to Be Vigilant and Aware of Surroundings

The Boston Police Department has identified recent incidents which involve allegations of sexual and indecent assaults committed by taxi, livery and gypsy cab drivers.

The five incidents listed in the alert are not believed to be related. I mapped the location of the incidents below:


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BPD Issues this list of tips:

TIPS FOR ENSURING YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY

• If you are in fear or feel in danger dial 911 immediately.
• Avoid walking or travelling alone late at night. Walk with friends and people you know.
• Consume alcohol responsibly and stay in the company of friends.
• Do not accept rides from out-of-town cabs or individuals in personal vehicles.
• Do not sit in the front seat of a taxi.
• Do not accept a ride locally for anything except a Boston Licensed Taxi. They all say “BOSTON LIC. TAXI” on both rear fenders.
• Make note of the taxi medallion number. It is located on both front fenders, the rear of the taxi and written on the rate card in the back of the taxi.
• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. When parking, walking or returning to your car, remain in well-lit and populated areas.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. Don’t become distracted by the use of cell phones or headphones.
• Keep a whistle within reach. If you feel threatened, use it to signal residents that you need assistance. Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” and/or “Rape!” are other ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on your way. Make sure that you’re expected at a certain time, so people will know to look for you in the event you fail to arrive at the designated time.
• Don’t assume, "IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME."


If you have a complaint regarding a taxi, contact 617-536-TAXI or email Taxi.bpd@cityofboston.gov.

This seems to be a really important issue and, while I understand that many of the college publications have gone on recess for winter break, with more and more students taking cabs to get to the airport or elsewhere around the holiday season I think awareness needs to be spread about this danger.