Former Littleton bus aide Kiarra Jones pleaded guilty after video and bus-camera footage showed her assaulting three nonverbal students with autism while on duty. Parents say the children suffered bruises, scratches, a black eye and a broken bone. Jones admitted to 10 felony counts of third-degree assault of an at-risk person and two misdemeanor child-abuse counts; sentencing is scheduled for March. The case has prompted calls for greater oversight of student transportation and protections for vulnerable students.
Former Littleton Bus Aide Pleads Guilty After Video Shows Assaults on Nonverbal Students
Brickbat: It Might Be Safer To Walk
Former Littleton, Colorado, school bus aide Kiarra Jones has pleaded guilty after surveillance and bus-camera footage showed her assaulting three nonverbal students with autism while on duty.
According to court filings and statements from the students' parents, the children sustained bruises, scratches, a black eye and a broken bone. Jones admitted to 10 felony counts of third-degree assault of an at-risk person and two misdemeanor counts of child abuse. She is scheduled to be sentenced in March.
Evidence and Charges
Video evidence captured the incidents on the bus, prompting an investigation and criminal charges. Prosecutors pursued multiple counts that reflect the victims' heightened vulnerability as nonverbal children with autism.
Impact on Families
Parents described traumatic injuries and expressed concern about the safety of students in school transportation settings. The case has raised questions about supervision, training, and accountability for staff who work with vulnerable children.
Next Steps
Jones will appear for sentencing in March. The school district and authorities may review policies and procedures for student transport; parents and advocates are calling for transparency and stronger protections for at-risk students.
Source: Report originally published on Reason.com.
Help us improve.
