Union Defends Bus Driver Suspended for Lap Dance Behind the Wheel

A Detroit city bus driver has been slapped with a 30-day suspension after a passenger filmed him with a woman -- apparently the driver's significant other -- riding on his lap as he drove his bus route.

The passenger who caught the act on his cell phone camcorder sent a copy to a local television station and Mayor Dave Bing's office. Upon review, city officials ordered the Detroit Department of Transportation driver to be suspended. The driver is also reportedly facing possible permanent dismissal, pending a formal review of his misconduct.

“You’re creating a public safety issue, and this administration is focused on customer service,” Dan Lijana, a spokesman for the mayor's office said Friday. “That’s not the kind of customer service we’re interested in providing or showing to residents.”

Meanwhile, Henry Gaffney, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 26, defended the driver, claiming that it was an "isolated incident" and does not warrant dismissal.