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Federal Charges Added in Broad Street Subway Vandalism Incident

By Tony Hanson

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Federal authorities have added their own charges against a Philadelphia man who allegedly dumped debris on the tracks of the Broad Street Subway last March.

Nicolas Colon, 23, allegedly roamed the tracks under North Broad Street, between the North Philadelphia and Girard stations, dumping work materials, wooden ties, metal spikes, and other debris onto the tracks.

Septa says a train hit the debris and sustained damage, but normal morning service had not yet begun so no passengers were on board and there were no injuries.

He later allegedly lied about his identity when questioned by authorities.

Colon had been charged by local authorities with numerous offenses, including causing or risking a catastrophe and damaging railroad property.

Now, a federal grand jury has indicted Colon, charging him with disabling and attempting to disable a mass transportation vehicle and giving false information.

Colon is in custody.  His attorney, Timothy Zearfoss, says Colon will plead not guilty, but adds that Colon has a history of mental illness, which could be a factor in the alleged conduct.

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