MAN ARRESTED AFTER MAKING THREATS AGAINST CONDUCTOR

 May 7, 2019

NEWARK, NJ – A man who allegedly made terroristic threats to an NJ TRANSIT conductor was arrested Sunday afternoon by New Jersey Transit Police Department officers.

On Friday, May 3, an NJ TRANSIT conductor was working on North Jersey Coast Line train 3240 as it arrived at Perth Amboy Station. Upon arrival, a man got off the train, brandished scissors and threatened to harm the conductor before fleeing on foot.  The conductor was not injured.

New Jersey Transit Police were notified and the conductor shared a photo of the suspect on social media. An NJ TRANSIT employee in Hoboken recognized the man, alerted New Jersey Transit Police and the arrest was made.

Prudencio Cruz, 65, of Fanwood, was charged with aggravated assault, terroristic threats, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. He was transported to Middlesex County jail.

“NJ TRANSIT remains committed to prosecuting assailants to the fullest extent of the law. The safety of our employees and customers is our top priority,’’ said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “The swift arrest in this case should remind anyone intending to harm a train crew member or bus operator that you will be caught and held accountable.”

“I am proud of the New Jersey Transit Police Department for making a quick arrest,’’ said New Jersey Transit Police Department Chief Christopher Trucillo. “During the investigation, NJ TRANSIT employees kept their eyes and ears open, and their help was instrumental in bringing this man into custody. I am grateful to all those who assisted us in holding this person accountable for his actions.’’

About NJ TRANSIT

NJ TRANSIT is the nation's largest statewide public transportation system providing more than 925,000 weekday trips on 251 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines and through Access Link paratransit service. It is the third largest transit system in the country with 166 rail stations, 62 light rail stations and more than 19,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.

This document and others are available for translation on njtransit.com.