PATERSON, NJ — A months-long investigation into a string of assaults and vandalism targeting local jitney bus operators has led to the arrest of 37-year-old Juan C. Hichez, authorities confirmed this week. Hichez was taken into custody on July 29 near Madison and Park Avenues in Paterson by members of the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office.
According to law enforcement officials, Hichez is accused of engaging in a pattern of violent and disruptive behavior directed at public transit operators since January 2025. Authorities allege that Hichez not only assaulted multiple jitney bus drivers, but also caused extensive damage to the buses and evaded payment for transportation services on several occasions.
As a result of the investigation, Hichez now faces a slate of criminal charges, including:
- Aggravated Assault on a Motorbus Operator
- Criminal Mischief
- Theft of Services
- Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
The sheriff’s office has not disclosed the specific nature of the weapon allegedly involved in the incidents, nor the exact number of times Hichez targeted transit workers. However, officials emphasized that the string of offenses spurred public safety concerns, especially for individuals relying on jitney buses as a primary mode of transportation.
Sheriff Thomas Adamo praised the efforts of his team and underscored the importance of maintaining safety for commuters.
“Citizens should feel safe as they travel throughout our County,” Adamo stated. “Illegal behavior will not be tolerated, and we will continue to pursue those who threaten public safety.”
Investigators say the arrest was made without incident, and Hichez is currently being held pending a court appearance. Additional details, including potential surveillance footage and witness statements, may be released as the case proceeds.
The Passaic County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone with further information about similar incidents involving jitney buses in the area to contact their tip line. The ongoing investigation remains active.
For many Paterson residents, jitney buses represent a vital link to jobs, education, and essential services throughout the region. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting these transit systems and the operators who work tirelessly to keep them running safely.
Leave a Reply