Two Massachusetts men have been indicted in a federal bribery and fraud case involving Boston Public Schools’ bus operations. Michael Muller, 59, former Director of Fleet and Facilities for the company managing BPS buses, and vendor John Colantuoni, 60, face charges including bribery, honest services mail fraud, and extortion, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Prosecutors say Muller accepted more than $870,000 in bribes over 11 years from vendors responsible for maintenance of the school bus fleet. Colantuoni is accused of paying bribes, including providing construction supplies for Muller’s vacation home. Muller appeared in federal court in Boston, while Colantuoni was arraigned in Tampa, Florida.
Court documents also allege Muller sought kickbacks through inflated invoices. A text exchange between Muller and a vendor referenced payments of several thousand dollars, illustrating the alleged ongoing scheme.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley stated that families rely on proper oversight of the school bus system.
If convicted, Muller and Colantuoni face up to 10 years for bribery charges and up to 20 years for honest services mail fraud and extortion, along with potential fines and supervised release. Both men are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
