Uber to allow audio recording of rides

THE GUARDIAN

Uber will allow passengers and drivers in Brazil and Mexico to record audio of their rides as it attempts to improve its safety record and image, and eventually it hopes to launch the feature into other markets including the United States.

Uber has struggled with safety issues and faced accusations that some of its drivers have assaulted and raped passengers. It also has been hit with litigation alleging that its hiring process and background checks are inadequate. Uber does not conduct fingerprint-based background checks, which traditional taxi companies generally perform before hiring drivers. read more »

State Senate eyes measure to aid sex-abuse victims

DAILY TIMES

State senators may consider legislation as early as today that could alter the Pennsylvania Constitution to broaden parameters for survivors of childhood sexual abuse to seek justice.

The measure is being passed as a package of four bills - HB 962, HB 963, HB 1051 and HB 1171 - that would amend the state constitution in eliminating the criminal statute of limitations for sexually abusing children, creating a two-year civil window for childhood sexual abuse victims who were unable to file suits previously, clarifying the penalties for a continuing failure to report child abuse and prohibiting non-disclosure agreements related to cooperating with law enforcement. read more »

US Catholic Church boards reviewing sex abuse fail victims

AP

The U.S. Catholic Church pushed what it called a key reform to address its exploding clergy sex abuse scandal almost two decades ago: Mandatory review boards with lay people in each diocese to review the claims of victims fairly and kindly.

But It often hasn’t worked that way, an Associated Press investigation has found. Instead, boards appointed by bishops and operating in secrecy have routinely served as a way to undermine the claims of sexual abuse from victims, avoid payouts and shield pedophile priests -- ultimately raising the question of whether the church is able to reform itself on its own. read more »

Bikram Choudhury: Who Is The Yoga Guru Accused Of Rape And Sexual Abuse?

THE INDEPENDENT

Anyone who regularly partakes in yoga will likely be familiar with Bikram yoga, a form of the exercise that is practised in a 40C, humid room for 90 minutes and consists of a 26-posture sequence and two breathing exercises.

However, not all will be familiar with the controversial, scandal-ridden man who founded it. read more »