Court Support for Bus Operator Paul Roper
NOVEMBER 9 -- 15 TWU Local 100 members in uniform joined arrested Bus Operator Paul Roper's family in Brooklyn Supreme Criminal Court today where his case was called and a brief conference was held between his lawyer and an ADA. Also in attendance were TA Surface Vice President JP Patafio, Division Chair Willie Rivera, and Division officers Armando Serrano and Louis Marrero. Mr. Roper was involved in a fatal accident on November 3rd, resulting in the death of a pedestrian. He was arrested and taken to Riker's Island. His family posted bail today. The ADA made no offer in the case, and the judge called for a grand jury to hear the evidence against Mr. Roper. Outside the courtroom, TWU Local 100 TA Surface Division Chair Willie Rivera thanked the Bus Operators and friends who turned out to support our union brother, who is facing charges of leaving the scene of a fatal accident as well as failure to yield in a right of way. TWU Local 100 President John Samuelsen has expressed the union's regret and sent a message of condolence to the family and friends of the deceased.