North Carolina School Bus Driver Arrested for Multiple Child Sex Assault Charges

Two separate incidents involving school bus drivers accused of sexual misconduct with minors have emerged in the United States. In Jacksonville, Florida, Gregory Strigglers, a former Student Transportation of America bus driver, was arrested for lewd conduct and unlawful communication with a 17-year-old student after evidence surfaced through messages, though the bus company has made no public comment and stated he no longer works for them. In Charlotte, North Carolina, Leetwain Darrell Tate, also known as "Ms. Sharon," was charged with multiple counts of sexual assault involving juveniles aged 14 to 15, including statutory rape and indecent liberties, with police indicating that several victims had been at his home and that the crimes did not occur on school property or during bus routes. Tate was fired from Sugar Creek Charter School prior to his arrest, which was made following a police investigation prompted by a parent's report; authorities are seeking additional victims to come forward. Both cases highlight concerns about the safety and vetting of individuals working with children in school transportation roles, prompting calls for accountability and vigilance from families and school communities. Law enforcement and school officials have encouraged any potential victims to report abuse, emphasizing the importance of addressing these crimes despite the trauma involved.