Bus Tunnel Guards Have More Authority After Beating

Security guards in Seattle's bus tunnel now have the authority to break up a fight, or physically defend themselves and others after a teenage girl was beaten in the tunnel last month and security guards just watched.

When 15-year-old Aiesha Steward-Baker was punched, kicked and robbed, security guards could only call for police and, according to the rules, were not allowed to get physically involved to protect the victim, or break up the fight.

Seattle City Council met with Metro Police Chief Major Dave Jutilla, King County deputies and Seattle police to talk about the new security plan.

"The focus really has been de-escalation of volatile situations, responding to hostile situations and give the security guards the basic skill to defend themselves,” Jutilla said.

As part of the new security plan, the tunnel guards working for Olympic Security Services will be given additional training and can step in to stop a fight or protect a bus rider.

"The security officer will do the best he can. He's been trained, he's been given the tools, and his safety and the safety of those around him will make the determination,” said Mark Vinson of Olympic Security Services.

Vinson said his company and the county are also exploring whether the guards should be given new tools like pepper spray or mace. They're only issued a two-way radio and a security vest now.

“I think it's wonderful and it should have been that way in the first place," said bus rider Char Linvog.

Seattle and Metro transit police said they both agree the transit tunnel is a safe place.

Previous Stories: February 19, 2010: Tunnel Beating Suspects' Parents Face Death Threats February 18, 2010: Lawyer: Bus Tunnel Victim Deserved Protection Despite Criminal Past February 18, 2010: Woman Says She Was Beaten, Robbed By Victim Of Bus Tunnel Assault February 18, 2010: Fifth Suspect Arrested In Bus Tunnel Beating February 17, 2010: New Security Plan After Bus Tunnel Beating February 12, 2010: Victim Of Bus Tunnel Beating Speaks Out February 12, 2010: Armed Officers Now Patrolling Bus Tunnel February 11, 2010: Friends Of Girl Accused In Beating Say Victim Provoked Group Earlier February 11, 2010: Girl Pleads Not Guilty In Seattle Bus Tunnel Beating February 11, 2010: Bus Tunnel Victim Says She Begged Police For Help Before Beating