In a disturbing turn of events late Saturday night, Transit Police officers arrested a 64-year-old Boston man for allegedly engaging in "upskirting" a minor. The man was caught in the act at the Back Bay station, having used his cellphone to take unsolicited photos under a 15-year-old girl's skirt. The Transit Police Department disclosed the incident in a post on X, confirming the phone was confiscated and the suspect taken into custody.
4/2 11PM #MBTA Back Bay TPD Officers arrest a 64y/o Boston man after he was caught "Upskirting" a 15y/o female w/his cellphone. Phone seized; subject placed into custody & transported to TPDHQ for the arrest booking process.
— MBTA Transit Police (@MBTATransitPD) April 3, 2024
Officials reported that the arrest took place around 11 PM. The suspect was apprehend inside the MBTA Back Bay station, a bustling transit hub known for its busy foot traffic. The swift actions of the Transit Police thwarted a criminal violation of privacy that could have left lasting trauma on its young victim. The perpetrator, whose name has been withheld, is currently undergoing the booking process at TPD Headquarters.
This latest incident of 'upskirting' – a term that refers to the invasive and illegal act of taking photos under someone's clothing without consent – highlights the ongoing issues of harassment and violation of privacy that plague public spaces. Despite the clear illegality of such behavior, cases continue to surface, underscoring a disturbing persistence of this form of sexual harassment.
The MBTA Transit Police are continuing their investigation into the incident. They have urged any other potential victims or witnesses to come forward. Concerned citizens and regular commuters are reminded to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious or inappropriate activity to the authorities immediately. It is up to the community and law enforcement to work in tandem to ensure that public spaces like the Back Bay station remain safe for all passengers, especially the most vulnerable among us.
