TTC driver assault nets 45 days in jail, probation

A 20-year-old woman was sentenced to 45 days in jail and one year probation for assaulting a TTC bus driver.

On Oct. 15, the assailant boarded a bus at Leslie St. and Lesmill Rd. and refused to pay a fare. After finally paying a partial fare, she was allowed to continue her trip. Five hours later, the woman attempted to board the same bus with the same driver and again refused to pay.

When the operator requested assistance to resolve the issue, the woman became irate, hitting the driver in the face and shoulder, and fled. Police investigated and later arrested the assailant.

Pearl Bati, 20, pleaded guilty to assault this week, and unrelated charges of theft and failing to comply with probation.

On average, one to two TTC employees are assaulted every day, ranging from punching and slapping to spitting, and more are threatened with physical harm or death.  The TTC's Court Advocates work with Crown Attorneys and the Courts to ensure the stiffest penalties possible for those convicted of assault or threats on TTC employees, and continue to seek limits on the use of public transit in Toronto for those convicted of these crimes.

In 2015, the Criminal Code of Canada was amended so that when a court imposes a sentence for assault, it considers as an aggravating circumstance the fact that the victim was a public transit operator engaged in the performance of his or her duty.