Nov 13, 2009 8:03 pm US/Eastern
T Riders Back Suspension of Texting Driver
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
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The video appears to show the operator using an electronic device in a rear car while the train is moving along Huntington Avenue.
WBZ
MBTA riders who watched a video of a Green Line operator apparently distracted by a hand-held electronic device agree with T management's disciplinary decision.
"That puts us all at risk, I think," said Ed Nico of Reading.
A cell phone video made Monday by a passenger who does not want to be identified appears to show the operator using an electronic device in a back car while the train is traveling down Huntington Avenue.
Watch: Home Video of T Driver Allegedly Texting
"We're going to recommend him for discharge immediately," said the T's acting general manager, Bill Mitchell, who explained the operator is being suspended for 30 days without pay before the firing is to take effect.
"I agree with the judgment because he's in control of lives at that point," said Nancy Benoit of Southbridge.
The T banned use of electronic devices by its employees on trains and buses last May after investigators said a Green Line operator told them he was texting when the trolley he was operating crashed into another, injuring about 50 people, doing about $9 million in damage. Such use of a device can lead to automatic firing. Mere possession of a cell phone on the job can lead to a 10-day suspension or firing after the second offense.
T officials say the operator in the video has 24 years on the job and is 45-years old. They did not release his name.
"I think it's ridiculous. We have enough crashes as it is. That's the last thing we need," said Jennifer Howard of Cambridge adding that firing "might be a good decision. It puts people at less risk."
Despite repeated phone calls from WBZ TV and a visit to the union that represents the suspended Green Line operator, there was no comment by late today.
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