Bus driver 'removed' after alcohol selfie surfaces

SHARONVILLE, OH (FOX19) - A shocking selfie has a 'First Student' bus driver in serious trouble.

A “selfie” of the driver sitting in the driver's seat of her bus shows her with a bottle of alcohol to her mouth.

The photo first appeared on social media sparking outrage.

"Oh she doesn't care. She obviously doesn't care about her job,” said Sadie Leporati, a mother of a Princeton Elementary School student.

It turns out the driver works for First Student, the largest school transportation company in the country. The company runs routes in the Princeton School District. When asked for their comment on the picture, they had no idea it existed. While they declined to go on camera, they did release a statement.

"

We understand and share in the concern this photo has caused the Princeton community. As soon as we became aware of the photo, we immediately began an internal review of the matter. We are incredibly disappointed by our driver's actions.

While we have determined the photo was taken at the end of the driver's route; that no students were on board; and, that the bottle was unopened, this behavior is completely unacceptable. Behavior such as this does not align with company policy and the high standards First Student strives for in all we do.

The driver has been removed from service.

"

Jen Biddinger

Spokesperson for First Student

The driver has been removed from service pending an internal investigation. Parents said regardless of the circumstances, someone in charge of their children's safety has no excuse for having booze on the bus.

"She shouldn't go back. She should absolutely get fired. It is inappropriate and very poor judgement on her part,” said Leporati.

The Princeton School District says they are aware of the photo and are working with First Student to complete the investigation. They say the safety of their students is their number one priority and behavior like this will not be tolerated.

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