To the Editor:
I am a recent Bayonne resident. I live in Bayonne and work in Jersey City. I take the light rail to work everyday.
The police “randomly” check for my ticket during rush hours. Recently, on Christmas Eve I did some shopping in Bayonne and I walked over to the 22nd Street Station. I stamped my light rail ticket and waited for a train. Then I had to really go to the bathroom, so I walked to the McDonald’s and then I went home to pick up something to make my stomach feel better. Then I proceeded to walk to the 34th Street Station.
I got on to the train and got off the train at Harsimus Cove (near the big ShopRite). I was immediately approached by a police officer, who asked to see my ticket. He told me that I was an hour overdue and I told him the above story and that I was on my way to the mall to finish my Christmas shopping. I was still carrying some of my gifts from Bayonne. He heartlessly did not care and talked to his fellow police officers and they all agreed that I was in violation.
I had a valid ticket with the Christmas Eve date stamped and I told them that I had to go to the bathroom and that I walked up to the next station. What do I tell the judge when I go to the court date on the ticket? Should I bring proof that I have constantly purchased tickets and that I am a law abiding citizen? I find this ticket unreasonable.
STUART GRAHAM