VANCOUVER – A man charged with attacking a bus driver in Surrey was sentenced this afternoon.
Sean Quaye, who was accused of punching a driver in the face on a Coast Mountain bus in March, was sentenced to two years in jail, three years probation and a three year ban on riding transit. The judge took into consideration Quaye’s extensive criminal history, dozens of convictions, including uttering threats and robbery.
The judge stressed bus drivers need to be protected and told Quaye what he did was beyond comprehension and that being high and drunk was not an excuse.
The Bus drivers’ union was very happy with Quaye’s sentencing saying the conviction sends a message to the public that the drivers are not punching bags.
On March 26 at about 8 p.m., Quaye and a woman were waiting for the 341 bus to Guildford. He was reportedly outside having a cigarette when the bus driver told the duo it was time for the bus to leave.
That’s when Quaye boarded the bus and about six blocks later allegedly punched the driver, breaking his nose. The bus was travelling at about 30 kmph and pulling into the left turn lane at 144 Street at the time of the assault, however the driver was able to bring the bus to a stop and open the doors, allowing both to leave.
Quaye was arrested on April 2, driving a stolen car in the Newton area of Surrey.
He was in court in New Westminster on Thursday morning and faced charges of assault against the driver.
Quaye previously entered a not guilty plea, but later changed his mind to enter a guilty plea after a key witness took the stand this morning.
The 21-year-old woman who got on the bus with Quaye on the day of the attack said he looked angry before the assault on the driver.
The woman said she was in shock when she saw blood pouring down the bus driver’s face.
She said she later met up with Quaye, who was concerned about getting caught by police. He also showed her the cuts on his hands, of which he appeared to be “proud.”
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