Cumberland Bus Driver Charged With Assault

A Cumberland County bus driver was charged with assault after allegedly hitting a special needs student he was transporting.

Cumberland County sheriff's officials said that a 17-year-old special needs student was hit with a notebook after he got off a bus without supervision.

Donald Lee Roddy Sr., 55, of 1904 McGregor Drive, Raeford, was charged Monday with assault on a handicapped person and contributing to the delinquency of a minor/neglect, authorities said.

Investigators say Roddy was employed by B&W Transporting Inc. of Lumberton at the time of the alleged incident. The company was hired by the Cumberland County School System to provide transportation for physically and mentally challenged students.

Roddy was released from jail on a $2,000 bond. His first court appearance is scheduled for April 13.