A longtime MTA worker, Metro-North Railroad cashier Tom Shabani, was arrested and charged with second-degree grand larceny for allegedly stealing nearly $206,000 from a transit agency counting room over a six-month period. The Westchester County District Attorney, Susan Cacace, described the case as an “extraordinary breach of trust” due to Shabani’s 24-year tenure with the agency. The alleged theft occurred between September 21, 2024, and March 12, and Shabani reportedly used the stolen money for personal expenses.
Shabani’s duties at Metro-North Railroad involved handling money received from ticket vending machines, and it is alleged that he pocketed the hundreds of thousands of dollars. He was arrested by MTA police and arraigned in White Plains City Court, where he was released on his own recognizance. Metro-North Railroad’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Justin Vonashek, stated that the agency has no tolerance for betraying the responsibility to safeguard public funds and has reinforced security measures in response to the incident.
Following the MTA police investigation, Shabani was suspended without pay pending further disciplinary action. The county’s top prosecutor, Susan Cacace, emphasized the importance of swiftly prosecuting Shabani as a warning to other workers who may be tempted to steal public funds. She stated that any theft of public funds, especially by a public official, represents an extraordinary breach of trust. Shabani is scheduled to appear in court on April 16 for further proceedings related to the case.
The arrest of Metro-North Railroad cashier Tom Shabani for the alleged theft of $206,000 from the transit agency’s counting room has raised concerns about breaches of trust and misuse of public funds. The six-month scheme in which Shabani reportedly pocketed the money for personal expenses has prompted Metro-North Railroad to take stricter security measures and reinforce guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding integrity and accountability in handling public funds.
The quick response by MTA police and the subsequent legal proceedings against Shabani underscore the seriousness of the alleged crime and the commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions. Prosecutors and law enforcement officials have emphasized the need to address any theft of public funds promptly and firmly to deter similar behavior in the future. Shabani’s upcoming court appearance on April 16 will shed further light on the case and potential consequences for his alleged actions. The case serves as a reminder of the responsibilities and consequences associated with handling public funds ethically and responsibly in public service roles.
