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EXCLUSIVE REPORT: The suspect charged in a recent stabbing incident on a Charlotte city bus has a troubling history, with 15 arrests in the past three years. James Calvin Bennett, aged 57, was released on bond just weeks prior to allegedly attacking another man during the bus ride, according to records from the Mecklenburg County Jail.
Bennett faced multiple arrests this year alone, having been booked twice before facing his latest charges on November 7. These charges include attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and indecent exposure.
The stabbing victim, identified as Jose “Frenchie” Mulongo, sustained life-threatening injuries from several stab wounds, including one located dangerously close to his heart. This alarming incident raises serious questions about public safety and the management of repeat offenders.
Witness Accounts of the Attack
The bus driver recognized Bennett, describing him as a homeless individual who often frequented shelters along her route. Witnesses reported that Bennett stalked Mulongo throughout the bus before the assault occurred. Surveillance footage corroborates these claims, indicating a premeditated attack.
Other passengers on the bus recounted hearing an argument just moments before the stabbing unfolded. They observed Mulongo attempting to escape before Bennett struck.
One witness reported seeing Bennett holding an open container of alcohol accompanied by a large kitchen knife with a black blade. This alarming combination of substances and weapons on a public transport bus underscores the urgent need for safety measures.
A Bystander’s Intervention
After the violent incident, at least one bystander bravely intervened, separating Bennett from Mulongo. However, Bennett fled the scene on foot. Law enforcement apprehended him hours later, allegedly still wearing the bloody clothes from the attack.
According to a police affidavit, Bennett possesses an extensive criminal record, which includes charges of assault with a deadly weapon and serious bodily injury with intent to kill. He previously pled guilty to a lesser charge involving one of these offenses.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Upon his arrest, Bennett initially invoked his Fifth Amendment right, opting to remain silent. Eventually, he allegedly made a statement about the knife, suggesting a level of awareness regarding the severity of the situation.
During his time in custody, a detective recognized Bennett from a prior incident involving another bus. Just four days earlier, a woman had reported being harassed by a man who was publicly masturbating while staring at her; this incident also involved Bennett. Such patterns of behavior highlight ongoing safety concerns in public spaces.
Prior charges against him include a theft in May, which led to his release on a $5,000 bond. In September, Bennett encountered the law once more on charges relating to robbery, domestic violence, and making threats. After posting a $25,000 bond, he was released days before the stabbing incident.
Criminal Record Summary
In reviewing court documents, authorities found that Bennett has faced 15 cases in Mecklenburg, Robeson, and Wake District Courts dating back to 2022. After his recent arrest, he is now being held without bail on the attempted murder charge, raising alarms about recidivism in the area.
This incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of the local judicial system regarding its handling of repeat offenders. Many community members express concerns about the safety of the city, especially after the stabbing deaths of individuals in public transit areas.
Similar Incidents in Charlotte
The city of Charlotte is reeling from past incidents that have raised questions about the effectiveness of its public safety measures. In August, another stabbing occurred on a commuter train, taking the life of 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska. The attack, categorized as unprovoked, highlights the dangers faced by commuters.
Allegations suggest that the suspect, Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, was mentally ill and had an extensive history of over a dozen previous charges. Such incidents contribute to an overwhelming fear within the community about the potential for violence during routine commutes.
A Call for Action
With growing concerns over public safety in Charlotte, local authorities and citizens alike are demanding a reevaluation of how the judicial system handles repeat offenders. Critics argue that lenient bail practices contribute to a cycle of violence that endangers innocent lives, and the recent stabbing incident may be an example of a failure to adequately address these issues.
Residents of Charlotte hope local leaders will take decisive actions to enhance safety measures within public transportation and implement more robust strategies for handling individuals with extensive criminal records. It is crucial for the city to address these ongoing challenges head-on.
As the legal proceedings against Bennett unfold, the community watches closely, hoping for justice and a renewed commitment to ensuring their safety on public transportation.
