DETROIT (WXYZ) — A Detroit bus driver is under fire for cell phone videos that appear to show him recording while driving passengers.
"Hey baby, I'm so bored. Ain't too many people on the bus," the driver said in the video. "I hope you making some money... I hope you thinking about me."
The multiple videos were sent to 7 Action News from a person who requested to remain anonymous. The tipster claims the driver is often negligent while on duty and putting the riders and general public's safety at risk.
7 Action News is not identifying the driver because he hasn't been charged with any crime. The personal videos range from 2 to 22 seconds in duration.
[CONT’d] This is a statement we received regarding the investigation.
— Rudy Harper (@RudyHarperWXYZ) January 28, 2020
The cell phone policy for bus drivers is unclear.
The director decline and on-camera interview. pic.twitter.com/asX5fOwcaE
DDOT Dir. Dan Dirks declined an interview on Monday. However, the city provided a written statement in response to the videos: "DDOT does not condone inappropriate driving practices. We are investigating internally and will take appropriate action as necessary. if customers have any feedback or questions concerning the safety and security of DDOT buses, please contact Customer Service at (313) 933-1300."
Some riders say the videos are alarming.
"That's ugly, it could be an accident. Not good," said rider Cynthia Freeman. "I bet they have it on camera. They just waiting on someone to tell on his tail."
Other riders say drivers should be allowed to use cell phones if they also use a hands free device.
"I've seen some of them talking, holding the phone to their ear talking while they're driving," another rider said.
When asked if he was concerned, he simply replied, "no."
The person who provided the videos claim the bus driver has been involved in multiple accidents. However, the city would not confirm.
7 Action News has requested video from the driver's route.
