Police: Casanova strikes out with woman on bus, so he attacks bus driver instead

Transit Police report arresting Joel Casanova, 34, of Dorchester, on charges he attacked the driver of his 22 bus after a woman whose attentions he sought told him to leave her alone.

Police described the incident as the bus traveled north on Blue Hill Avenue near Columbia Road around 9:50 a.m. on Saturday:

The female passenger requested she be left alone and Casanova relocated to the rear of the bus and began to shout profanities and threats directed at the bus operator without provocation. Shortly thereafter Casanova rose from his seat and charged towards the bus operator while the bus was in operation. The operator fearing for his safety as well as that of the passengers stopped the bus. Upon reaching the bus operator, who was still seated, Casanova forcefully pushed the operators head into the driver's side window. Casanova then fled the bus.

Officers caught up to Casanova who appeared to be intoxicated, Casanova stated his desire to "punch the operator in the mouth". When informed that would not be possible Casanova inquired of the officer if he (Casanova) could "punch" the officer in the mouth instead.

Casanova was charged with assault and battery on a public employee and interfering with public transportation. He is scheduled for arraignment today in Dorchester District Court.

Innocent, etc.