Pennridge bus driver charged with sexual assault

WTXF - A 74-year-old bus driver for the Pennridge School District has been arrested, and authorities say he committed multiple sexual assaults against special needs students.

According to the Montgomery County district attorney, James C. McIntyre, 74, has been charged with institutional sexual assault, indecent assault, indecent exposure, endangering welfare of children, corruption of minors, and unlawful contact with a minor.

An investigation by the Hilltown Township police alleges that McIntyre "was involved in repeated episodes" of indecent contact with both a 14-year-old and a 22-year-old, both special needs students, over a period of six years. Prosecutors say McIntyre inappropriately touched the victims, had them touch him and exposed himself.

McIntyre was driving the students from Bucks County to Chester County, but falls under Montgomery County jurisdiction because the alleged crimes occurred while he stopped at traffic lights in the county.

The Pennridge School District announced that they have suspended McIntyre.

"The Montgomery County District Attorney's Office has informed me that James McIntryre, one of our minivan bus drivers, has been arrested today for charges related to the corruption of minors," Dr. Jacqueline A. Rattigan, Superintendent of the Pennridge School District, said in a statement. "Mr. McIntyre has been employed with the District's Transportation Department since 2002. He has been suspended without pay and is banned from school district property, pending the outcome of the investigation.

"We will be in contact with the families of students involved and will provide all necessary resources. The District will cooperate fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues."

Bail was set at $75,000. The defendant's next hearing is scheduled for Feb. 9.