Austin ISD bus driver accused of sexually abusing young female student
AUSTIN, Texas — A bus driver for Austin ISD is a accused of inappropriately touching a young girl earlier this year.
AISD Police were called to Uphaus Early Childhood Center on May 29 after the girl's parents told authorities that their daughter would "cry and get extremely upset every morning" when it was time for her to get on the bus, according to an affidavit.
They said the 5-year-old also began to "exhibit out of the ordinary behaviors," including a fear of going to the restroom.
The girl's mother told police that she noticed the bus driver, identified as 57-year-old Cesar Maldonado, exhibiting "strange behavior" as well--including allowing the victim to sit on his lap.
In the affidavit, the girl's mother said her daughter approached her and said "I want to tell you something but I don't what you to get angry with me." The girl then told her mother that Maldonado touched her inappropriately.
According to court documents, the victim told investigators Maldonado touched her when the monitor left the bus. She also told police Maldonado called her to the front in order to "show her how to drive the bus" while other students were on board.
Maldonado was interviewed by police in early August, where he denied inappropriately touching the girl.
However, according to police, the next day he confessed to touching her several times from March 1 through May 23, 2018.
The district is hopeful there are no other victims.
"At this point, no other complaints have been received, but we do encourage parents if they have questions or concerns about Mr. Maldonado or the safety of their children, to please bring it to our attention and contact the police department," said AISD Police Chief Ashley Gonzalez.
Parents got that chance to raise concerns Monday evening at a parent meeting held about the incident. Media was not allowed inside, however one mom told us officials went over safety procedures and mandates, and how to talk to your child if you suspect they're being abused.
Cesar Maldonado is charged with continuous sexual abuse of a young child. His bond is set at $50,000.
AISD says the driver does not have a criminal record. He worked for AISD for 10 years.
