Former Tiger Transit employee accused of raping AU student appears in court

AUBURN, AL (WTVM) – One of the former Tiger Transit Bus drivers charged with raping an Auburn University student is making a court appearance on Tuesday.

Tony Patillo's court hearing is to discuss why his bond was revoked after having ankle monitor issues.

Patillo, 51, of Columbus, was arrested on Sept. 16, 2017, and was charged with rape and sodomy.

An investigation revealed that a female, who appeared to be incapacitated, entered a bus operated by First Transit, contracted by Tiger Transit, near Magnolia Avenue in Auburn.

While on the bus, she was sexually assaulted by Patillo.

James Johnson Jr. was also arrested in this incident and charged with rape and sodomy.

Johnson was driving the bus at the time the alleged crime continued on the bus.

During court, the prosecution is arguing that Patillo may have tampered with the device - the defense says that is not the case at all.

On Sept. 29 and 30 the monitor showed no activity,  but a representative from the ankle monitor company says Patillo was simply not charging the device.

Judge Steve Speakman says Patillo is an adult and should've listened to the directions on his ankle monitor so his bond is still being revoked.

James Johnson Jr's attorney filed a motion that no media be in the courtroom with both me are before a judge. The hearing for both men is scheduled for Nov. 15.

Follow Parker Branton on Twitter for live court updates.

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