Transit Union Sought Removal of Judges After Releases
The union claims judges are endangering transit workers by releasing suspects accused of physical assaults.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Criminal Justice
Live Poll
Should judges face removal for releasing defendants accused of violent attacks while awaiting trial?
The Transport Workers Union has requested the removal of judges who granted supervised release to defendants accused of assaulting transit employees. This move follows a 13% increase in transit worker assaults throughout New York City in 2026.
Why it matters
The union claims that the continued release of repeat offenders creates an unsafe environment for transit staff, prompting calls for judicial accountability. They are currently organizing potential demonstrations to demand stricter bail outcomes for those accused of violence against transit workers.
There were 87 NYC Transit and MTA bus employees assaulted in 2026, marking a 13% increase over the 77 recorded in 2025. Investigations remain active regarding the specific release decisions made by various judges in these assault cases.
The players
Transport Workers Union
This labor organization represents transit employees and is advocating for the removal of judges who grant supervised release to defendants accused of assaulting workers.
Thywill Anasu
He is a defendant accused of assaulting a bus driver and an FDNY fire marshal, leading to scrutiny over his supervised release.
Jhon Hurtado Olmos
He is a defendant currently facing charges for allegedly slashing a subway station cleaner in New York City.
Judge George Fufidio
He is a presiding judge who initially set bail for the suspect Thywill Anasu at $5,000 cash or $50,000 bond.
Judge Michele Davila
She is a presiding judge who granted supervised release to Thywill Anasu following his second arrest for allegedly assaulting a fire marshal.
The details
The union highlighted cases such as that of Thywill Anasu, who was released on supervision by Judge Michele Davila after allegedly assaulting a bus driver and later a fire marshal. Similarly, Jhon Hurtado Olmos was placed on supervised release by Judge Shirin Zarabi following the alleged slashing of a subway station cleaner.
Timeline
April 4, 2026: Thywill Anasu allegedly assaulted a bus driver.
April 30, 2026: Anasu appeared for arraignment in Westchester County Court.
August 24, 2026: Jhon Hurtado Olmos allegedly slashed a subway cleaner.
September 2, 2026: Police arrested Jhon Hurtado Olmos.
September 19, 2026: The union voiced their concerns publicly.
Legal Context
The union's demand for judge removal represents a direct challenge to the judicial discretion allowed under current New York State bail reform legislation. This tension reflects broader debates regarding public safety versus the principles of supervised release.
The potential demonstrations planned by the union could result in temporary protests near judicial buildings or transit hubs. Residents should be aware of possible disruptions or increased security measures if these union actions proceed in the city.
The takeaway
The union's actions underscore the significant friction between labor groups and the judiciary regarding bail practices for violent offenses. Transit employees continue to navigate evolving safety protocols as the city balances criminal justice reform with worker protection.
Further reading
For more information on local judicial procedures, visit the Criminal Justice section.
Live Poll
Should judges face removal for releasing defendants accused of violent attacks while awaiting trial?
