News Summary
Natalie Lacey, a Jacksonville woman, is seeking accountability from Student Transportation of America after uncovering a sexual relationship between her niece and a bus driver. Despite Lacey’s 20 years of experience as an STA driver and her report, the company delayed response. Investigations are ongoing, and while the driver has resigned, the incident raises serious concerns about student safety and communication protocols. The community is urged to monitor children’s interactions closely.
Jacksonville – A Jacksonville woman, Natalie Lacey, is calling for accountability from Student Transportation of America (STA) following allegations that her 17-year-old niece was involved in a sexual relationship with a bus driver from the company. Lacey uncovered the alleged relationship through text messages and Instagram direct messages.
Lacey, who has 20 years of experience as an STA driver, reported the interaction to the company, anticipating a prompt response. However, after submitting her report, she noted that days passed without any feedback from STA. Subsequently, detectives from the Department of Children and Families and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office visited her home to discuss the case further.
Lacey expressed her dissatisfaction with STA’s lack of communication post-report, emphasizing her disappointment that the company has not followed up on the serious matter. STA confirmed the incident and stated that the implicated driver was immediately removed from service and is no longer with the company. They assured that the safety of students is their utmost priority and that they are cooperating fully with local authorities and Duval County Public Schools as the investigation continues.
The driver involved in the incident made the decision to resign from his position after the report was made. Meanwhile, Duval County Public Schools indicated that they are aware of the ongoing investigation and are taking necessary steps to prioritize student safety during this period, including ensuring the removal of the driver from service.
As the situation unfolds, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is in the process of reviewing the case. At this time, no arrests have been made concerning the allegations. Lacey highlighted the importance of parents monitoring their children’s communications on social media and through text messages, reflecting on her own oversight in this regard with her niece.
Investigation Details
The Department of Children and Families was notified of the allegations by STA, in accordance with state law, and they are working alongside law enforcement in the investigation. The situation has garnered attention as parents across the community are urged to remain vigilant regarding their children’s interactions, both online and offline.
Background on STA and Community Response
Student Transportation of America is one of the largest and most seasoned providers of student transportation services in the United States, tasked with ensuring safe transit for millions of students each year. The company has stated its commitment to student safety and has protocols in place to address incidents when they arise, although Lacey’s case raises questions about the effectiveness and responsiveness of those protocols.
The community’s response has been mixed, with some expressing outrage over the nature of the allegations, while others stress the necessity for better communication and transparency from transportation authorities in the wake of such serious incidents. Parents are increasingly encouraged to engage more deeply with their children’s lives, particularly concerning their interactions with adults in authoritative positions, such as bus drivers and educators.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation and its findings may lead to further discussions regarding safety measures and oversight within the transportation of students. Lacey’s demands for accountability resonate with many, highlighting a crucial conversation about safeguarding children within community systems.
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Additional Resources
- WOKV: Jacksonville Aunt Demands Accountability
- Action News Jax: New Putnam County Ordinance
- First Coast News: Duval County Bus Driver Arrested
- Wikipedia: Sexual Offender
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Offender
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
