A former Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) employee has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to an overtime fraud scheme involving several transit workers. Jensen Vatel, 43, of Brockton, admitted last week in U.S. District Court in Boston to conspiracy to falsify records, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud aiding and abetting, falsification of records aiding and abetting, and making false statements, according to court documents and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Boston.
Prosecutors described Vatel as a Red Line track inspector who, between January and mid-October 2024, either fabricated inspection reports himself or assisted others in submitting fraudulent reports. The investigation found that Vatel and his alleged co-conspirators created false inspection documents using information sourced online and artificially extended the reported duration of inspections to avoid detection by supervisors.
Evidence introduced by prosecutors included surveillance footage from Cabot Yard, an MBTA facility that houses a breakroom for Red Line inspection employees. Authorities noted that during the times inspections were purportedly conducted, Vatel was often seen inside the yard, sometimes using break areas rather than performing his duties.
The fraudulent activity also involved billing for overtime hours not actually worked. Prosecutors detailed instances where Vatel and others either failed to show up for scheduled overtime shifts, arrived hours late, or clocked in at the start of shifts but then left the worksite for extended periods, sometimes resting in their vehicles before returning to duty. The total amount of money obtained through the scheme has not been disclosed by officials.
Vatel was one of seven defendants charged in connection with the broader case, although the status of the other individuals' proceedings remains unclear. Under a plea agreement, federal prosecutors have recommended a prison sentence at the lower end of the federal sentencing guidelines, accompanied by one year of supervised release and a fine of $1,100. Vatel’s sentencing hearing is set for December 15. He is currently out of custody on certain conditions.
Requests for comment from Vatel’s attorney were not immediately returned. Officials have not provided further details on the ongoing investigation or the potential involvement of additional parties.