WASHINGTON — A 43-year-old man was convicted Thursday for inflicting serious injuries on a Metro Transit Police sergeant at the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro Station earlier this year. The attack, which occurred during an alleged fare evasion incident, has raised concerns about safety in public transportation.
Erik Schleehauf faced a jury in D.C. Superior Court, where he was found guilty of multiple charges, including assault of a police officer while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. The convictions stem from a violent encounter on April 15 that began when Schleehauf attempted to avoid paying fare by climbing over the station’s fare gates.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro emphasized the severity of the crime, highlighting the impact of such violence on community safety. She stated that the assault exemplifies behavior that will not be tolerated, especially against law enforcement officers who are just performing their duties. The injured officer, who sustained severe stab wounds, represents the broader challenges faced by police in ensuring public safety within transit systems.
The incident unfolded shortly after 2:26 p.m. when the officer observed Schleehauf’s fare evasion and pursued him. When confronted, Schleehauf resisted arrest, prompting the officer to use pepper spray in an attempt to subdue him. According to prosecutors, it was at this moment that Schleehauf produced a sharpened metal bolt and, using it to stab the officer multiple times in the face.
The attack resulted in serious puncture wounds, delivering lasting nerve damage to the officer’s cheek and jaw. Airport authorities quickly apprehended Schleehauf at the scene following the altercation, preventing any further actions.
Schleehauf is scheduled to be sentenced on October 3. The outcome of this case serves as a reminder of the risks transit officers face daily in maintaining order and safety for commuters. The incident has reopened discussions surrounding the challenges of fare evasion and its potential consequences in urban transit systems.