Transgender woman attacked on Halloween during Blue Line commute

By Colette Lauture

After a transgender woman was allegedly assaulted at the Maverick MBTA station on Halloween, officials say a Boston man is now facing charges. Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said Gregory Burnett, 53, plead not guilty to charges including assault and battery and a civil rights violation with injury.

MBTA police identified and arrested Burnett last Tuesday with witness descriptions and surveillance video. The victim, a 41-year-old woman, told police the attack started as Burnett boarded a train she was on at the Maverick station.

He quickly approached her and began yelling “derogatory terms” at her, according to the DA. Burnett allegedly said to her “you’re not a woman, you’re a man,” then proceeded to kick and punch her. The DA said the woman made attempts to defend herself, but fell when Burnett grabbed her foot. This caused her to fracture her wrist.

The day after the incident, the woman filed a police report. She said she felt targeted because of her gender identity based on what Burnett said to her during the assault, according to the DA.

Burnett was released last week from jail, after initially being found dangerous in court. Court records say he now has to remain at home outside of work hours. While being GPS-tracked, he also is to avoid any witnesses to the incident and cannot commit further offenses.