NW Indiana School Bus Driver Accused of Driving Drunk with Students Onboard
Arrest Made After Months-Long Investigation
A Northwest Indiana school bus driver was arrested after allegedly driving under the influence with students on board, according to sheriff’s officials. Kayla Pier, 38, of Michigan City, was charged with operating while intoxicated and neglect of a dependent – both Level 6 felonies – following a months-long investigation, according to a Facebook post from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Occurred on September 20
Pier, who was previously employed as a bus driver for the LaPorte Community School Corporation, was allegedly drunk on September 20 when she drove a school bus from LaPorte Middle School to Riley Elementary School with 32 students onboard, deputies stated. During the drive, reports from students regarding Pier’s behavior and mannerisms surfaced, according to law enforcement. As a result, the transportation director for the school corporation went to the elementary school and “intervened,” police said. Pier resigned from her position later that same day.
Investigation and Arrest
On October 21, the school district’s superintendent contacted sheriff’s officials to report that they had received a toxicology report from a test Pier submitted on September 20. Following an investigation, probable cause for Pier’s arrest was found on December 20, and a warrant was issued. Pier surrendered to law enforcement on Friday and was booked into the LaPorte County Jail. The former bus driver was later released from custody after bond was posted on her behalf, authorities said.
Conclusion
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving, especially when it comes to transporting children. The LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office and the LaPorte Community School Corporation are working together to ensure that students are safe and that those responsible for their care are held accountable.
FAQs
Q: What were the charges against Kayla Pier?
A: Pier was charged with operating while intoxicated and neglect of a dependent – both Level 6 felonies.
Q: How many students were on the bus when Pier allegedly drove drunk?
A: There were 32 students onboard the bus.
Q: What was Pier’s employment status at the time of the incident?
A: Pier was a bus driver for the LaPorte Community School Corporation.
Q: What happened to Pier after her arrest?
A: Pier was booked into the LaPorte County Jail and later released after bond was posted on her behalf.
