As part of its investigation, KNTV San Francisco reviewed more than 200 bus surveillance videos that showed drivers being attacked. “The Drivers Under Siege investigative series is another powerful example of the important role of investigative journalism in our communities,” said Stacy Owen, KNTV’s general manager.
KNTV, the NBC O&O in San Francisco, earned a Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award for its investigative series, Drivers Under Siege.
KNTV’s investigation into the dangerous working conditions faced by Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District bus drivers found that AC Transit drivers faced more violent assaults than any other district in the Bay Area.
“Our investigative unit reviewed more than 200 bus surveillance videos which showed AC Transit drivers being attacked at a rate much higher than the public or even the agency knew about,” said Stephanie Adrouny, KNTV’s VP of news.
“These attacks are not only putting the lives of drivers at risk, but riders as well. We’re glad our investigative series is prompting lawmakers to take action to protect our public safety.”
As a result of the investigation, which was recognized with a Society of Professional Journalists award earlier this year, AC Transit installed new bus shields to protect drivers.
In addition, California federal lawmakers introduced a bill in Congress requiring transit districts across the country to reassess their safety measures.
Since 2012, NBC Bay Area’s The Investigative Unit has been recognized with more than 65 awards for the station’s investigative work, including 17 national awards, seven regional Edward R. Murrow Awards, and 30 regional Emmy Awards.
Click here to go to KNTV’s website page on this investigation where you’ll find more videos, maps of attacks, and other media rich material.
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