MOVIE PLOT

Lawyer exploiting bus thief to score film deal: DA

A LAWYER for serial transit thief Darius McCollum is steering him away from a plea deal and into a trial so she can cash in on a movie deal about the Brooklyn man’s bizarre joyrides, prosecutors charged Wednesday.

The mass transit buff has been arrested nearly 30 times for allegedly stealing buses and trains, and faces the possibility of life in prison if his case goes to trial.

But McCollum’s own attorney, Sally Butler, is derailing his chances at a shorter sentence by holding out for reasons that have nothing to do with a trial or a courtroom, according to Brooklyn Assistant District Attorney Janet Gleeson.

“We have records that she will get a benefit in the end,” Gleeson said.

Butler signed a contract in 2016 with Hollywood executives for a deal that has Oscarwinning actress Julia Roberts slated to portray her in a movie about McCollum, called “Train Man.”

“Your honor, I’d like for you to look at the contract, to examine it in respect with the date they were signed and when the talks of a movie deal came around,” Gleeson said prior to the start of jury selection.

Butler, who defended McCollum (photo inset together) after he was first charged with stealing a Trailways bus in Queens in 2012, denied the accusations.

“I’ve advocated for him the best that I can all these years,” Butler said with a shaky voice.

McCollum, 52, also has a contract with the producers, although it’s unclear which actor might play his part. The film has been on a hiatus for unknown reasons.

He is facing trial for taking an empty Greyhound bus for a joyride in November 2015. Jury selection for case was put on hold after Gleeson questioned Butler’s motives.

McCollum has turned down plea offers that would have included sentences of 31/2 to 15 years in prison. Butler said her client is seeking an agreement that would allow him to receive treatment for Asperger syndrome and autism. McCollum has twice been convicted of felonies in connection with stealing buses and trains. If convicted of a felony, he faces a possible life sentence. “I’m comfortable with my attorney,” McCollum told the judge. “There’s no one else who can explain it any better.” Despite McCollum’s endorsement, another attorney will consult with him. Butler, however, will not be removed from the case. The award-winning documentary about McCollum, “Off the Rails” premiered in November 2016. He starred in the film while on parole.