Statesboro, Georgia — A disturbing incident on a school bus has led to the charging of seven juveniles and a bus driver following a violent attack on a 7-year-old child. The events unfolded on April 18 during a morning bus route to Mattie Lively Elementary School, prompting an investigation by the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office.
Capt. Todd Hutchens from the Sheriff’s Office described the attack as severe, involving children ranging from ages 5 to 14. During a press briefing, he detailed how one student allegedly stomped on the victim while others participated in the assault. “This kind of behavior cannot be overlooked,” Hutchens emphasized.
The investigation began after Deputy Julian Carter Brown, a School Resource Officer, received a report on April 23 regarding the attack. Video evidence from the bus camera helped law enforcement identify the students involved. Hutchens noted that the district attorney’s office advised that all juveniles would face battery charges, confirming the seriousness of the situation.
While the precise number of children arrested remains unclear, Capt. Hutchens stated that all seven were taken into custody, with their parents notified immediately. The juveniles were processed separately from adult detainees at the Bulloch County Jail to ensure their safety and privacy.
In addition to the juvenile charges, the bus driver, 70-year-old Joey Edwin Jackson, faces accusations of cruelty to children and failure to report child abuse. Bulloch County Schools Superintendent Charles Wilson explained that the school district learned of the incident on April 21, just days after the attack. He underscored the importance of following protocols in reporting such incidents.
Hutchens criticized Jackson for not taking appropriate action during the incident. “He did not pull over, nor did he report the fight to the bus garage,” Hutchens said. Jackson, who began his employment with the school district in 2023, has since been terminated for failing to adhere to reporting guidelines.
The child who was attacked suffered bruising but did not require hospitalization, according to school officials. The director of Public Relations for the school district, Haley Greene, confirmed that the injured child has since returned to school without further incident.
As the case moves forward, it will be referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice for further proceedings. Capt. Hutchens acknowledged the complexities involved, particularly given the age of the youngest juvenile. “Each child involved will be held accountable, reflecting their understanding of right and wrong,” he stated.
Superintendent Wilson voiced the school district’s commitment to providing a safe educational environment, deeming acts of violence unacceptable. “We have a responsibility to ensure every child feels secure while at school,” he remarked, reaffirming the stance against any form of violent behavior.
The investigation remains active, and authorities are asking anyone with additional information to reach out to Sgt. Bubba Revell at the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office.