BULLOCH COUNTY, Ga. — A recent incident on a school bus has prompted criminal charges against a bus driver and seven students after a 7-year-old was reportedly assaulted during the morning route. The Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation following reports of the attack, which occurred on April 18 while the bus was en route to Mattie Lively Elementary School.
The investigation revealed that the assault involved students aged 5 to 14, who physically attacked the young victim on Highway 301 North. Capt. Todd Hutchens of the sheriff’s office described the incident as troubling, stating that one of the children crossed over the seat to stomp on the victim. The young student sustained serious injuries, including significant bruising.
Video evidence from the bus confirmed the involvement of the seven students, who now face battery charges. Each of these students has been suspended from their school, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. The bus driver, 70-year-old Joey Edwin Jackson, also faces charges, including cruelty to children in the second degree and failure to report an incident of child abuse.
According to law enforcement, Jackson did not stop the bus to address the incident nor did he reach out for help from the bus garage during the altercation. Officials expressed their concern not just for the victim’s safety but also for all students on board.
Bulloch County Schools Superintendent Charles Wilson announced that Jackson is no longer an employee of the district, having been with the school system since October 2023. The superintendent emphasized that the district adheres to a strict anti-bullying policy, mandating a safe and supportive environment for all students.
Wilson confirmed that the victim has returned to school, illustrating the district’s commitment to ensuring safety and comfort for all students during their educational experience. While details about the disciplinary actions taken against the charged students remain confidential due to privacy laws, Wilson assured the community that the school district is partnering closely with law enforcement to navigate the situation.
Ongoing communication has been established between the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office and school officials to ensure that all protocols are followed and that the safety measures in place are effective. The sheriff’s office released a statement underscoring the seriousness of bullying and child safety on school transportation.
In light of this incident, the school district reiterates the expectation that all students adhere to behavioral guidelines while on school buses, which are considered extensions of the classroom. Parents and guardians are encouraged to engage with their children about the importance of respectful conduct in academic settings.
As the investigation continues, the Bulloch County community is left reflecting on the need for vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard students from bullying and promote a culture of respect and safety in schools.