Merida, Yucatan — Council members on the Permanent Commission of Public Security, qualifying judges and personnel from the Legal Department of the Municipal Police are cracking down on street harassment.
The groups are working to modify and update penalties and sanctions in the defense of human rights, as well as encouraging morality and good manners, they told Sipse.
Municipal Police Chief Arturo Romero Escalante said that so far this year around five cases of street harassment were reported, resulting in detention. He asked citizens to report offenders to the authorities or call 911 and not just share it on social networks.
Offenses can be physical, like unwanted touching, or jeers, insults and catcalls.
Harassers can be held for up to 12 hours although the proposed modification is 36 hours as well as community service, he explained.
Councilwoman Ana Gabriela Aguilar Ruiz stressed the reforms are aimed at shielding women, children, seniors and people with disabilities from abuse.
Source: Sipse