Bus Driver Acts in Self-Defense is Suspended

Veteran driver, Artis Hughes, has a great reputation in the 22-years he’s been on the job and is a family man that loves to come to work. He was suspended after punching an unruly passenger in a viral video seen worldwide. Amalgamated Transit Union president of Local 2689 William Nix, Sr. says Hughes, 59, acted “human” in defending himself, adding, ” We’re not gonna say the driver is just supposed to go and attack someone. If someone is violating their space and attacking them, what do you want them to do.” On September 18th passenger, Shidea Lane, 25, refused to pay the fare at a stop in Beachwood. Nix says Lane got physical when Hughes threatened to put her off his bus. The transit union president is now calling on the RTA, Cleveland council members and state leaders to draft legislation that would ultimately protect bus and rapid drivers against unruly passengers. “They gotta go home safe and whole, like they came to work,” Nix says, “They shouldn’t have to come losing an eyelid, eye or limb or die because they’re trying to do their job.” go to link>>>