Joey Edwin Jackson: Bus Driver Charged with Cruelty to Children and Failure to Report Child Abuse After Violent School Bus Attack
A disturbing incident aboard a Bulloch County, Georgia, school bus has led to serious criminal charges against both students and the bus driver, Joey Edwin Jackson, 70. The case has drawn significant attention from law enforcement, school officials, and the local community, highlighting the importance of student safety and adult responsibility.
The Violent Attack
On the morning of Friday, April 18, 2025, a group of seven students ranging in age from 5 to 14 initiated a physical attack on a 7-year-old student during the bus route to Mattie Lively Elementary School. The assault was described as a violent, multiple-on-one incident, and was captured on the bus’s surveillance camera. Authorities reported that one child climbed over a seat and used his feet to stomp on the young victim, who suffered visible bruising but did not require hospitalization.
Bus Driver’s Role and Arrest
Joey Edwin Jackson, the bus driver, did not intervene during the attack and failed to report the incident to school officials or law enforcement. As a mandated reporter, Jackson was required to notify authorities of any suspected child abuse. His inaction led to his arrest and subsequent charges of cruelty to children in the second degree and failure to report child abuse. Jackson was dismissed from his position by the Bulloch County Board of Education effective April 25 and was later released on bond after being booked into the Bulloch County Jail.
Legal and School Consequences
All seven students involved were identified through video footage and charged with battery. Their cases have been forwarded to the Department of Juvenile Justice, and each has been suspended from their respective schools. School officials emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable and that the district is reviewing its procedures to prevent future communication gaps.
Community and Official Response
At a press conference on May 1, 2025, Bulloch County Schools Superintendent Charles Wilson and law enforcement leaders stressed the importance of student safety and accountability. They urged parents and students to review the district’s behavior expectations and reiterated that the school district is committed to providing a safe environment for all students.
Summary Table: Key Facts
| Name | Role | Charges/Consequences | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joey Edwin Jackson | Bus Driver | Cruelty to Children, Failure to Report Child Abuse | Dismissed, charged, released on bond |
| 7 Students (ages 5-14) | Students | Battery | Suspended, referred to juvenile court |
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and timely reporting in protecting children and maintaining a safe school environment. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials encourage anyone with information to come forward.