Pinellas detectives arrest school bus driver for sexual battery on child
LARGO FL November 11 2018 – Pinellas County Sheriff’s detectives arrested a 61-year-old St. Petersburg man Nov. 9 on charges of attempted sexual battery, one count of sexual battery, two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation, and one count of lewd and lascivious conduct.
Detectives assigned to the Crimes Against Children Unit arrested Ernest Williams after an interview at the Sheriff’s Administration Building in Largo.
Williams was working as a bus driver for Pinellas County Schools; however, detectives say there is no evidence that Williams had inappropriate physical contact with students related to his job.
Detectives began an investigation Oct. 26, after a 16-year-old female victim informed a family member of inappropriate sexual activity.
Detectives say the victim reported that Williams, who was known to the victim’s family and in a position of custodial care, forced the victim to have inappropriate sexual activity with him. The victim also reported that Williams inappropriately touched her on multiple occasions.
The victim told detectives the abuse occurred in June 2015, while the victim was 13 years old, and again in May 2016.
During the course of the investigation, detectives identified a second potential victim who alleged Williams had inappropriate sexual activity with her in a different jurisdiction. That investigation is ongoing.
Williams was transported him to the Pinellas County Jail where he is being held without bail.
Detectives say it’s possible there are more victims in this case. Anyone who believes their child may have been a victim or has information regarding this case is asked to contact Detective Weistock of the Crimes Against Children Unit at 727-582-6483.
