TAMPA, Fla. – A woman in Hillsborough County has been arrested for assaulting two HART bus employees after being denied entry onto an overcrowded bus.
The incident occurred on October 29th, 2024, when Tamara West, 36, attempted to board a full HART bus. The bus supervisor, citing overcrowding, instructed the driver to continue on its route.
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Frustrated at not being allowed on board, West reportedly hit both the supervisor and the bus driver in their faces and arms, and spat on them. She then fled the scene before deputies arrived.
“Violence against our public service workers is unacceptable; they deserve to work in a safe and respectful environment,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We are committed to protecting those who serve our community and will hold accountable anyone who threatens their well-being.”
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West was later apprehended by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and charged with burglary of a conveyance with assault or battery, battery on a public transit employee, and battery on a licensed security officer.
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