An Illinois school bus driver has been apprehended after being recorded consuming beer while driving a bus filled with 32 elementary students. The driver, 44-year-old Sarah Thompson, has since lost her job. According to authorities, she faces two counts of jeopardizing the safety and well-being of minors for allegedly consuming two alcoholic beverages while operating the vehicle.
Fortunately, no children were harmed, but local officials stress that Thompson’s actions posed a serious threat. “Parents trust us to keep their children safe on the bus, and it’s deeply troubling to think that someone entrusted with that responsibility could endanger their lives,” commented Police Chief Lisa Carter during a press briefing.
The Incident Unfolds
The alarming incident came to light thanks to a manager at the local bus company and an attentive convenience store clerk. The clerk notified the school district after selling beer to a woman who then boarded a school bus. Acting on this tip, police launched an investigation and discovered that Thompson had picked up the bus early that morning, completed one route, and then stopped at a gas station, where she bought two cans of beer before returning to the bus.
Video evidence confirmed that 32 students were aboard when Thompson resumed driving. Authorities reported that there were no known prior criminal charges against her; however, records indicate she did receive a citation back in 2017 for having open alcohol while driving, which resulted in a $120 fine. At the time, she held a Class B commercial driver’s license.
Company Response and Legal Proceedings
In light of the incident, the bus company released a statement affirming their commitment to student safety, confirming that Thompson’s contract has been terminated, and stating they are fully cooperating with the investigation. Thompson was released on a $100 bond and is scheduled for a court hearing regarding the charges on December 27. Additionally, her commercial driver’s license will be reviewed by the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office to determine if she can retain it.
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Conclusion
In summary, the incident involving the bus driver drinking while driving has raised serious safety concerns among parents and authorities alike. Thompson’s actions, which could have endangered the lives of numerous children, have led to her arrest and subsequent job termination. The investigation is ongoing, and she faces serious legal repercussions.