Leetwain Darrell Tate, a 48-year-old school bus driver from North Carolina, was arrested last week on multiple charges related to sexual abuse of minors. Tate, who identifies as a woman and goes by “Ms. Sharon,” faces serious allegations involving at least four victims aged 14 to 15. The charges include two counts of statutory rape, six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, and one count of statutory sex offense, according to police reports.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department confirmed Tate’s arrest followed an investigation that uncovered disturbing details. At least one victim reportedly received money in exchange for sexual acts. Tate was taken into custody Tuesday and is currently held by the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.
In response to the incident, Sugar Creek Charter School, where Tate previously worked as a bus driver, announced that he was suspended during the investigation and terminated from employment shortly after. The school maintained that Tate met all hiring requirements at the time of employment. However, the ongoing investigation has raised questions among concerned parents about the thoroughness of the school’s background check procedures.
Preliminary information suggests that the incidents did not occur on school grounds or while Tate was driving a school bus. While the details are grim, they have understandably shocked the local community. Resident Tony Sanders expressed his concerns, stating, “It’s pretty disturbing that it is so close to home and you are just shocked. To think someone would take advantage of that is very alarming.” This sentiment echoes the feelings of many who are grappling with the implications of such violations against minors.
Family members of Tate, present at the courthouse during this tumultuous time, claim he is innocent of the charges against him. However, the seriousness of the charges and the nature of the allegations leave the community and parents questioning how such an individual could have worked with children.
The school district continues to navigate the fallout from Tate’s arrest, aiming to reassure parents and safeguard students. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities young people face and the responsibilities of adults in positions of trust and authority.
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