Man arrested in connection to string of smashed subway OMNY sensors in Brooklyn
BROOKLYN, New York (WABC) -- Police have arrested a man in connection to a string of vandalism incidents in which a suspect smashed several OMNY turnstiles at MTA subway stations.
According to officials, 42-year-old Brian Baska was arrested for criminal mischief.
MTA spokesperson Kayla Shults released a statement following the arrest.
"Destruction of fare payment systems inconveniences New Yorkers and forces taxpayers to spend resources on repairs that could otherwise go to improving service. We appreciate the NYPD's investigation and arrest," Shults said.
Police released surveillance video of the person they say had vandalized turnstiles at two MTA subway stations on seven different occasions.
The incidents took place between May 31 and June 14.
Investigators say the same man smashed OMNY sensors with an unknown object at the Borough Hall and Court Street stations.
Video shows the masked suspect walking up to the turnstile and violently smashing two different OMNY units then walking away.
No one was hurt during any of the incidents, but the damage to the sensor units is estimated to be in the tens of thousands of dollars.
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