A Jamaica Plain man is facing criminal charges after prosecutors say he sexually assaulted an MBTA Silver Line bus driver during a Thursday route, then got off the bus a few stops later. Michael Vandenbroeke, 41, was arrested and held on $500 bail after allegedly groping the driver’s chest, grabbing her face, and poking her in the eye, according to prosecutors, as per Boston.com.
Allegations and arrest
Prosecutors say the incident began when Vandenbroeke boarded at the Massachusetts Avenue and Washington Street Silver Line stop. After the driver picked up and handed back a perfume bottle that had been dropped, he allegedly reached toward her and groped her, according to Boston.com. The alleged assault was reportedly captured on bus surveillance video. Investigators circulated still images of the suspect, and Transit Police later arrested Vandenbroeke at Nubian Square station, prosecutors said.
Charges and next court date
Vandenbroeke pleaded not guilty to indecent assault and battery on a person over 14, assault and battery on a public employee, and disorderly conduct on a public conveyance, according to prosecutors. A judge ordered him held on $500 bail, with a return date set for April 21. If he posts bail, prosecutors say he will be required to stay away from the bus driver and have no contact with her, according to Boston.com. “An incident like this is an intolerable affront on them and on everyone who uses public transportation,” Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said in a statement, according to his office.
Transit-worker safety
Assaults on MBTA operators have surfaced repeatedly in recent years, sharpening concerns about safety for both drivers and riders. Transit Police and prosecutors have emphasized swift enforcement and support for operators who are attacked. The Boston Globe has previously detailed similar incidents and how authorities and the MBTA respond, underscoring that this is far from an isolated issue on Boston’s public transit system.
What to watch
Prosecutors say court records show Vandenbroeke has multiple convictions for violent offenses dating back to 2005. Upcoming pretrial proceedings will determine whether the court imposes any additional restrictions as the case moves forward through Suffolk County courts. His next scheduled appearance is set for April 21.
