Charlotte School Bus Driver Charged with DWI and Child Abuse

In a concerning incident that unfolded in Charlotte, a school bus driver was arrested on Thursday for allegedly driving while impaired, putting the lives of children in jeopardy. The driver, identified as Sylvia Ann Dollard, aged 70, was taken into custody after police received multiple reports of her erratic driving.

The Incident

According to the police report, at least 21 students from Oakdale Elementary School were on board the bus during the incident. Witnesses reported that Dollard was not only driving erratically but was also missing designated school bus stops. Alarmed parents took it upon themselves to intervene, stepping in to prevent any further potential danger.

Legal Consequences

As a result of her actions, Dollard was charged with driving while impaired (DWI) and later faced an additional 10 misdemeanor child abuse charges over the weekend due to the substantial risk of harm she posed to the children. Two students reportedly sustained injuries as a consequence of her driving.

School District Response

In response to the incident, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) confirmed that Dollard has been suspended with pay since August 30. She has been employed with CMS since 2014, raising further questions about how such a situation could occur.

Public Reaction

Community members have voiced their concerns regarding the safety of children on school buses and have called for more stringent measures to ensure that drivers are fit for duty prior to transporting young students.

This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in ensuring the safety of children during their daily commutes to school.