JAMES CITY COUNTY, Va. - A Williamsburg-James City County Schools bus driver and bus aide have been arrested and charged with the abuse of a special needs student.
James City County Police say they were contacted by JCC Social Services and W/JCC School Administration on June 7 in reference to an assault that occurred on a school bus on June 3.
Police say the victim is a 9-year-old special needs student who was on a bus specially equipped for special needs students and strapped into a harness that prevents him from exiting his seat completely.
During the bus ride home from school, the student reportedly became disruptive.
Footage from the bus' camera shows the bus driver and aide verbally abusing the student before physically assaulting him -- including pinning him to the seat, slapping him, spitting on him, pushing him and forcing his arms over his mouth, restricting his breathing.
The driver, 49-year-old Kenneth R. Spencer, is charged with assault and battery and felony abduction.
The aide, 49-year-old Laura L. Spencer, is charged with assault and battery.
Laura Spencer was released on $1,500 secured bond and Kenneth Spencer is currently being held on a $2,500 secured bond.
School officials say the two were fired on June 7.
Due to the nature of the investigation, the video is not being released.
(Left: Laura L. Spencer | Right: Kenneth R. Spencer)
