Hillsborough County, Florida – Two Hillsborough County Public Schools employees were arrested following a disturbing child abuse investigation.

The case began on November 14, 2025, when deputies were alerted by a witness who saw a school bus aide striking a 10-year-old child on a bus parked at Caminiti Exceptional School. The child, diagnosed with Autism and ADHD, is minimally verbal.

Detectives reviewed video footage on November 18, 2025, which confirmed repeated abuse by the bus aide. The footage also showed the bus driver laughing during the incidents. Further review on December 23, 2025, uncovered thirteen additional days of abuse between October 2 and November 14, 2025.

“This case goes far beyond abuse. It reveals a level of cruelty that is deeply disturbing,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “A defenseless child was physically abused by someone entrusted with their care, while another adult failed to intervene and instead laughed. It is an inexcusable betrayal of trust and a profound lack of humanity.”

On January 26, 2026, authorities arrested the bus aide for 14 counts of child abuse and the driver for failure to report child abuse. The investigation remains active, with further updates expected from the Public Affairs Office.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download