A Hillsborough County school bus aide was recently arrested for child abuse involving a 9-year-old nonverbal autistic victim.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested the 79-year-old school bus aide on a charge of child abuse.
Local deputies responded to Cypress Creek Elementary School, south of Tampa, regarding a child abuse call for service in January. Upon arrival, deputies met with the victim’s mother, who reported concerns that her 9-year-old nonverbal autistic son may have been struck on the school bus by his aide.
During the investigation, deputies learned that on one occasion, 79-year-old James Savage struck the victim on the top of his hand. Savage was also observed removing his hat and slapping the victim on the left side of his face with it, according to law enforcement.
“Any form of abuse against a child is completely unacceptable. Children deserve to feel safe at all times, especially in the care of those entrusted with their well-being,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Protecting our most vulnerable is a responsibility we will never take lightly, and those who violate that trust will face the consequences.”
James Savage was arrested on one charge of child abuse.
This is an active investigation, according to local law enforcement.
