On June 10, 2022, Washington County school bus driver, John Robert White of Vernon, Florida, was arrested on multiple charges of lewd and lascivious behavior on a victim older than 12 and younger than 16, one count of lewd and lascivious molestation on a victim under 12, and one count of lewd and lascivious battery on a victim older than 12 and under 16. White is currently being held at the Washington County Jail as the investigation continues.
According to news reports, the investigation of White, 53, began in early May after a school resource officer overheard a conversation where a student mentioned being molested by their friend's father. White was immediately suspended pending investigation. He was finally arrested after accusations were brought forward by three sexual abuse survivors under the age of 16, with one younger than 12, but bonded out of jail shortly after. Two of the victims were on White's route. However, it's unclear when the reported instances took place.
The Investigation of John Robert White
The authorities began an investigation of reports of his alleged sexual abuse after three students claimed White sexually abused them. The Washington County Sheriff's Office stated that White reportedly has a history with these types of cases, but there have been no charges thus far, with some reports dating as far back as 30 years. Since his initial arrest, three more victims came forward for a total of six, accusing John Robert White of inappropriate sexual acts. White was then arrested again and remains in the county jail until trial.
Officials said White has been a bus driver in Washington County on and off since the early 1990′s. "In 2013, White came back as a substitute driver, and in 2017 White became a full-time driver," stated Superintendent of Schools Joseph Taylor. The Washington County School Board rescinded a recommendation made months ago to renew White's bus-driving contract after charges were filed against him.
It goes without saying that the consequences for those convicted of these crimes are particularly severe. Lewd and lascivious molestation of a minor under the age of 12 years old by a defendant over 18 can result in a sentence of life imprisonment. As a society, we entrust teachers and other school employees with the instruction and protection of our children on a daily basis. It is every parent's worst nightmare to hear that their child has been abused in the care of school officials, whom we all place so much trust in.
Horowitz Law has substantial experience representing victims of sexual abuse in the school system. If you have been a victim of sexual misconduct by John Robert White or have any knowledge about such events, please contact our law firm at (888) 283-9922 or e-mail sexual abuse lawyer Adam Horowitz today.