MBTA sues union to fire supervisor accused of sexist misconduct

The MBTA is suing the OPEIU MBTA Inspector’s Union Local 600 to challenge an arbitrator's ruling that reinstated Patrick Goggins, a supervisor terminated for sexual and racist harassment. The arbitrator acknowledged that the MBTA had just cause for Goggins’ termination but deemed the punishment too harsh. Goggins had a history of inappropriate behavior, including a prior warning for using condescending language towards a Black female subordinate. The MBTA argues that its zero-tolerance policy for sexist and racist conduct should prevail. The case has highlighted the challenges of arbitration decisions, which can complicate disciplinary actions against employees.

Goggins worked for the agency for nine years and earned several promotions. The MBTA has not commented on the ongoing litigation, which underscores the complexities of employee misconduct cases. A similar situation occurred with a Boston police officer who was twice fired but regained his job through arbitration.