The victim of alleged racist abuse on a tram has welcomed increased security on the network.
Police and Metrolink staff have beefed up patrols since US army veteran Juan Jasso was allegedly racially abused on a tram in Manchester city centre a fortnight ago.
The incident propelled ‘Super Juan’ to fame as smartphone footage captured the lecturer telling his accusers to mind their language.
Since, then Transport for Greater Manchester has beefed up its ‘Travelsafe Unit’ which features police, Metrolink and bus staff.
After seeing for himself how the unit operates as a guest of Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd, Juan, 38, from Todmorden, told the M.E.N: “In the last few weeks I have been using the tram and the train and there’s a big presence now on the platforms and on the trains with ticket inspectors and even police officers.
“I think that has a huge impact on whether somebody is going to act out. I think it’s something that has worked, does work and is a good thing.”
He added: “I think in the current climate it’s something that probably needed to be done just to reassure people and make sure it doesn’t re-occur. There are people out there who might feel unable to handle situations like that and not speak up and feel really uncomfortable. I think it’s a really good thing they are trying to raise awareness and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”
He said he had been surprised that he was now being recognised as ‘that man from the tram’.
“I still ride the tram and the train and what happened doesn’t bug me at all. The only slightly different thing is that people recognise me. I still don’t know if I like that,” said Juan. Three teenagers have been arrested and bailed.
Greater Manchester’s Mayor and Police & Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Hate crime is serious crime, and should be treated as such. Hate crimes destroy lives, fuel division, and by their very nature are deeply personal attacks.
“The public would rightly expect the police, CPS and courts to treat hate crime with the seriousness it deserves, taking a firm stand through investigation, prosecution and sentencing.
“We all have a responsibility to stand together against hatred, and demonstrate to all our communities that Greater Manchester is a place of hope, with a people united.”
