TAMPA, FL – A school bus driver employed by Hillsborough County Public Schools was arrested Friday after a student victim came forward to report a sexual assault. Deputies arrested Ronale Divad Johnson, 45, on Friday, April 9, 2021.
The sexual assault occurred April 8, 2021, when the victim was alone with Johnson on the bus. He serves as a bus driver for East Bay High School, Lennard High School, and Beth Shields Middle School.
He has been employed by the school system since February 2020.
“Parents place their trust in authority figures within our school system, and this suspect undoubtedly broke it when he chose to take advantage of this student,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I want to commend this very brave student for coming forward, and doing what is right, so this driver can face the consequences for his despicable actions.”
Johnson is charged with one count of Sexual Battery and three counts of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation.
At this time, it is believed that this is an isolated case.