The Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589 is calling for the immediate apprehension of a Jamaica Plain man who failed to appear in court today on charges stemming from the alleged assault of a female MBTA operator.
Michael Vandenbroeke, 41, was scheduled to appear in Boston Municipal Court but did not attend the hearing. He faces charges of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14, assault and battery on a public employee, and disorderly conduct on a public conveyance. Following his absence, a judge revoked his bail and issued an arrest warrant.
The charges stem from an incident on March 26 aboard the Silver Line in which Vandenbroeke is accused of sexually assaulting a female MBTA operator.
The case is notable because it is believed to be the first prosecution under Massachusetts’ new law strengthening penalties for assaults against public transit workers. The law, which took effect on March 6, establishes mandatory penalties for those convicted of assaulting or battering public transportation employees and was enacted in response to a growing number of attacks on frontline transit workers.
“We must protect all transit workers and those who commit assault must be held accountable,” said Jim Evers, President of Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589. “This female MBTA operator, like all transportation employees, deserves to feel safe on the job. We hope authorities are able to quickly track this individual down so justice can be served.”
The legislation was designed to provide stronger protections for bus operators, train operators, station personnel, and other public transportation employees throughout Massachusetts.
“The days of assaulting public transit workers are over,” Evers added. “We now have the tools to protect transit workers and we must enforce the laws.”
Local 589 remains committed to advocating for the safety and security of all transit workers and urges authorities to swiftly locate and arrest the defendant so the case can proceed through the justice system.
