Metro security guard accused of assaulting woman over loud music

A Metro security guard, Erma J. Spears, 60, is facing serious charges for allegedly assaulting a woman at the Riverview Transit Center on October 10, 2024. She has been charged with second-degree assault and armed criminal action. Following the incident, Spears, who was employed by a security subcontractor, has been reassigned away from all Metro Transit properties, according to Kevin Scott, the General Manager of Security for Bi-State Development.

The incident began when Spears confronted a woman about the loud music she was playing from her phone. After the victim complied with Spears' request to lower the volume, tensions escalated. The victim left the area, but upon returning to use the restroom, she encountered Spears again. The security guard allegedly blocked her entry and shoved her, prompting a physical altercation.

During the struggle, Spears reportedly drew a baton from her duty belt and struck the victim multiple times in the head. Witnesses, including a Metro Bus Driver, observed that the victim had blood on her and an open wound on her head as a result of the assault.

Emergency services were called, and the victim was transported to a hospital, where she received staples to treat her head injury. The serious nature of these charges underscores the potential risks associated with security personnel when proper conduct is not upheld.

As the case develops, the community is left to grapple with the implications of such incidents involving those entrusted with security responsibilities. Spears’ actions have raised concerns about safety and accountability within transit environments.