COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Columbus City Schools bus driver was arrested Monday while on the job and now it’s raising questions from parents about the hiring process and background checks.
A father of a CCS student reached out to 10TV, concerned he hadn't heard from the district about a crash involving the bus that was taking his son to school in the morning.
His 12-year-old son called to tell him he had been in a crash while riding the bus. He said his son also told him the driver was arrested.
The crash, involving a CCS bus, happened Monday morning in Mifflin Township. Police said the investigation into the crash is active.
However, police said the driver was arrested on an unrelated domestic violence charge. Franklin County Municipal Court records show there are 4 charges total, including domestic violence and assault.
We are not naming that person, because the charges aren't related to their role as a school bus driver.
Court records show the driver though is accused of choking and threatening to kill a significant other.
“Honestly, it scares the crap out of me,” said Aaron Hamilton, the father of the student who was on the bus at the time of the crash. “I mean, I don't know what kind of background checks they do or anything, but somebody that you know, has a domestic violence charge in charge of a bunch of kids going to school is, is really bizarre and scary."
Columbus City Schools said a communication was sent home to parents about the crash, but Hamilton said he never received anything and he makes sure his contact information is always up to date with the district.
CCS said background checks are done on all employees as part of the hiring process.
Here's more from CCS spokesperson, Jacqueline Bryant:
"We did not receive any Rapback notification from the Ohio Department of Education regarding the recent criminal charges. The Rapback, also known as the (Record of Arrest and Prosecution Back) notifies school districts and the employee of any inactive status, including warrant, charges, or license suspensions. Also, employees must self-report if they are notified of any inactive status."
The driver had a warrant out for their arrest since September 18 after the school year began.
According to CCS, the driver is currently assigned to home without pay.