Four former employees and one current employee of the MBTA are facing federal charges for allegedly falsifying Red Line track inspection records. The case is a reminder that workplace misconduct can have serious criminal consequences. While all five defendants have pleaded not guilty and await trial, the potential penalties for the accused could be lifechanging.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Brian Pfaffinger, Ronald Gamble, Jensen Vatel, Nathalie Mendes, and Andy Vicente are each facing federal charges of falsification of records, aiding and abetting and false statements, each of which carry sentences of years behind bars and substantial fines.
The falsification of records and aiding and abetting charge carries up to 20 years in federal prison, in addition to supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The false statements and aiding and abetting charges could amount to up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $250,000, according to prosecutors.
The charges follow an investigation into Cabot Yard in South Boston, a Red Line maintenance facility, where multiple employees were found allegedly engaging in misconduct during working hours.
Prosecutors allege that instead of carrying out required safety inspections, several of the defendants remained in the yard—some even working on private vehicles while on the clock. The most serious accusation is that they knowingly submitted false records claiming inspections had been completed. Supervisory oversight was allegedly compromised, with allegations that Pfaffinger, a supervisor, not only knew about the misconduct but also had employees work on his personal car.
This case highlights how breaking workplace rules, particularly in roles tied to public safety, could escalate into federal white collar criminal charges. What may seem like “cutting corners” or helping out a colleague can carry life-changing consequences.
If you or someone you know is facing accusations involving white collar offenses such as falsifying records, fraud, or misuse of public resources, it is essential to retain a criminal defense attorney with deep experience in white collar criminal defense. The stakes are too high to leave your future to chance. A skilled attorney can help protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and build a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. At Dhar Law, LLP, our award-winning white collar criminal defense team have defended countless serious cases in federal court. Our legal team understands the complexities of white collar cases and how to fight them effectively in court.
Don’t face the system alone—reach out to our team today to find out how we can fight for your rights.
At Dhar Law, LLP, we have defended countless fraud cases and fought for our clients’ rights by building a robust case to counter the prosecution’s allegations. Please contact us at 617-880-6155 to speak to a member of our award winning fraud defense team if you or someone you know is affected by fraud charges.
