A Massachusetts school bus driver is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he deviated from his assigned route and made unauthorized stops while transporting children.
The 54-year-old Worcester man was arrested on Jan. 14 following an investigation into alleged crimes involving minors, according to the Grafton Police Department. Officials said the man had been employed as a school bus driver responsible for transporting students in the town of Grafton.
Police announced that he has been charged with two counts of kidnapping, reckless endangerment of a child, misleading a police investigation and tampering with evidence. Investigators noted that the case remains active and that additional charges could be filed.
Authorities allege that the driver strayed from his approved route while students were on the bus and made stops that had not been authorized. School officials said they became aware of the situation and immediately worked with law enforcement to address the matter.
The superintendent of Grafton Public Schools said in a statement that the driver is no longer employed and emphasized that student safety remains the district’s top priority. School officials confirmed they are in direct contact with affected families and are providing support and resources as needed.
Law enforcement officials said the suspect was not assigned to general student transportation routes but may have had contact with multiple students. The school district has notified all families whose children may have been affected.
Police acknowledged that news of the arrest may be distressing for parents and guardians and urged families to speak with their children in an age-appropriate way. Officials encouraged students to report any behavior that made them uncomfortable to a trusted adult.
The suspect was arraigned in Westborough District Court on Wednesday and is currently being held on $50,000 bail. Authorities said that if bail is posted, he will be placed on house arrest and required to wear a GPS monitoring device.
Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, police said they are unable to release additional details at this time. Officials reiterated that protecting children remains their highest priority as the case continues.