Woman Tased, Robbed While Waiting For SEPTA Bus: Philly Police

Janesha Pickett accused of using taser in robbery of 66-year-old victim

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Philadelphia authorities have charged 35-year-old Janesha Pickett with aggravated assault, simple assault, robbery, and related crimes for allegedly attacking and robbing a 66-year-old woman who was waiting for a SEPTA bus last month. The victim was knocked to the ground, dragged, and tased on her arms and hands before the suspects took her bag containing personal identifiers and $500 cash.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing public safety concerns around crime and violence targeting vulnerable individuals in Philadelphia, especially those relying on public transportation. It also raises questions about the use of tasers by suspects and the need for improved security measures at bus stops.

The details

According to police, the incident took place at 6:39 a.m. on January 18 at the intersection of Benner Street and Castor Avenue. The victim was waiting for a Route 59 SEPTA bus when at least two people, one described as a Black woman in her twenties wearing a mask, got out of a red Jeep SUV. The suspect grabbed the victim's book bag, and during the struggle, the victim was knocked to the ground and dragged. The suspect then used a taser on the victim's arms and hands to take the bag, which contained personal identifiers and about $500 cash. The suspects then drove off in the red Jeep.

  • The incident took place at 6:39 a.m. on January 18, 2026.
  • Janesha Pickett was taken into custody by authorities on Wednesday.

The players

Janesha Pickett

A 35-year-old woman charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, robbery, and related crimes for the alleged attack and robbery of the 66-year-old victim.

The 66-year-old victim

The woman who was waiting for a SEPTA bus and was attacked, tased, and robbed of her bag containing personal identifiers and $500 cash.

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What’s next

Janesha Pickett is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on February 26, 2026, where a judge will decide whether to allow her to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for improved security measures and better protection for public transit users in Philadelphia, as well as the ongoing challenges of addressing crime and violence that disproportionately impact vulnerable members of the community.