MetroAccess driver accused of sexually assaulting disabled passenger

LAUREL, Md. - An investigation is underway after an adult female with an intellectual disability was sexually assaulted by her bus driver, Metro Transit Police said.

Metro Transit Police arrested a MetroAccess driver on sexual-offense and assault charges Tuesday morning. Derrick Lamont Bowen, 44, of SE Washington, DC, has been terminated and is accused of inappropriate sexual contact with a female passenger, according to police. He allegedly stopped the vehicle early Tuesday and assaulted the victim in a church parking lot.

The alleged incident took place in the 12700-block of Claxton Drive in Laurel. A witness observed Bowen move to the rear passenger compartment where he then engaged in a sexual act with an adult female passenger. There were no other passengers aboard the vehicle at the time of the incident.

After the witness called 911 Prince George's County Police officers took Bowen into custody. Metro Transit Police were notified, and the victim was transported to a local hospital.

Bowen was charged with 3rd degree sex offense, 4th degree sexual contact and 2nd degree assault. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible. Bowen is an employee of Transdev Corporation, which provides MetroAccess transportation service under contract to Metro. He had been employed by Diamond Transportation since March 2015.

Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld released the following statement, "I am deeply disturbed by these allegations, especially as they involve our customers with disabilities."

Anyone with information that may be helpful for detectives is urged to contact Metro Transit Police at (202) 962-2121.