Portland man James Han is seeking $415,000 in damages from TriMet, alleging he was assaulted by two security guards on a MAX train in October, according to a December lawsuit in Multnomah County Court. KATU reported the incident occurred after Han, a funeral director, reportedly bumped into a guard while returning from work.
Han’s attorney alleges the guards, contracted by Portland Patrol Inc. (PPI), committed battery, assault, and negligence. One guard allegedly “violently grabbed” Han, while the other put him in a chokehold and then tried to force him into a seat after sweeping his legs out from under him at the Gateway Transit Center. Fox 12 reports that Han’s lawyer described him hitting his head against a window during the incident.
TriMet, while not commenting on ongoing litigation, confirmed the officers are employed by Portland Patrol Inc. (PPI), contract security for its network, not TriMet employees as the lawsuit initially claimed, according to FOX 12. KOIN 6 reports that plaintiff’s attorney Michael Fuller has accused TriMet of failing to properly train its guards and is seeking witnesses to the incident.
The case comes as TriMet works to improve passenger safety, including opening a new Security Operations Center and doubling safety staff. Chief Safety and Security Officer Andrew Wilson told KOIN 6 in October that these measures aim to help in situations such as mental health crises. Despite these efforts, the lawsuit highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining safety and proper conduct on the transit system.
Han has declined to comment, but his attorney, Michael Fuller told KATU he is optimistic, as the district attorney is reportedly pressing criminal charges against the two guards. A jury trial will determine the final compensation if Han’s claims are confirmed. Meanwhile, Portland Patrol Inc. has not responded to requests for comment.
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