Statesboro, Georgia — A serious incident on a Bulloch County school bus has prompted charges against seven juveniles and a bus driver following a violent attack on a 7-year-old student. The event, which occurred during the morning route on April 18, has raised substantial concerns about safety protocols within the local school system.
Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Todd Hutchens described the event as a coordinated attack involving children aged 5 to 14. In a press conference, Hutchens detailed the shocking nature of the incident, stating that one child climbed over a seat to assault the victim physically. The severe nature of such behavior necessitated a thorough investigation, he emphasized.
The Sherman’s Office began its inquiry after School Resource Officer Deputy Julian Carter Brown received the initial report about the attack on April 23. The investigation revealed that multiple students had participated in the assault on the 7-year-old while on the way to Mattie Lively Elementary School. Evidence, including video footage from the bus, played a critical role in identifying the individuals involved.
The identified juveniles were subsequently charged with battery after discussions with the district attorney’s office led to directions for their processing. Capt. Hutchens mentioned that while details of each individual’s involvement remain unclear, all seven were placed under custody and transported to the Bulloch County Jail, where they were kept separate from adult offenders.
In addition to the juvenile charges, the bus driver, 70-year-old Joey Edwin Jackson, faces allegations of cruelty to children and failing to report the incident. Hutchens highlighted Jackson’s failure to take immediate action by not stopping the bus or notifying authorities about the situation while it unfolded.
Bulloch County Schools Superintendent Charles Wilson addressed the incident during the same press conference, revealing that the school district became aware of the altercation days later, on April 21. He acknowledged the need for better communication protocols and assured that steps would be taken to address and rectify any lapses in reporting procedures.
The sheriff emphasized the obligation of the bus driver to adhere to established safety guidelines, stating that Jackson did not fulfill his responsibility to report the altercation. As a result of this breach, Jackson is no longer employed by Bulloch County Schools.
The 7-year-old victim reportedly sustained minor injuries, including bruising, but has since returned to school without any further issues. The school district is committed to providing a safe environment for all students, with Wilson insisting that violent behavior will not be tolerated within its schools.
Charges against the juveniles will proceed through the Department of Juvenile Justice, where it will be determined how the case will be handled in the legal system. Hutchens remarked on the responsibility of young individuals, asserting that even at a young age, they should comprehend the difference between right and wrong.
The Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the incident, urging anyone with additional information to reach out. This case serves as a stern reminder of the importance of oversight and security in school settings, where the safety and well-being of students must always be prioritized.