Published: November 05, 2009 09:59 pm      

Former Wyoming County bus driver convicted

PINEVILLE — A former Wyoming County school bus driver is facing up to two decades in prison after being convicted Wednesday of sexual abuse by a parent, guardian or custodian following a two-day trial in Wyoming County Circuit Court before special judge Robert Burnside of Raleigh County.

Robert Junior Thomas, 46, of Wyoming, was accused of having sex with a 16-year-old student in July 2007. The victim was a student in the summer school program, where Thomas worked as a bus driver.

Thomas reportedly passed the student a note, asking her to meet him after hours, according to Prosecutor Rick Staton.

Thomas picked the girl up outside her residence, then took her to the R.D. Bailey Lake campground and had sexual intercourse with her, Staton said. DNA tests confirmed the act and that Thomas was the perpetrator, Staton explained.

Thomas argued he was not acting in the scope of his duties as a bus driver when he had intercourse with the student.

“I’m glad the jury didn’t buy that argument,” Staton said. “Teachers, bus drivers and education personnel hold a special place in the lives of our children. Our school children should feel safe when they are under their care and control. Any person who abuses that trust should be dealt with severely and harshly.”

Sheriff Randall Aliff and Deputy Randy Brooks were the investigators.

Thomas’ bond was revoked after he was found to have inappropriately photographed and hugged a lifeguard at Twin Falls Resort State Park over the summer, Staton said.

A sentencing date has not been set, but will probably be sometime in January, Staton said. Thomas faces 10 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Staton said he will ask for the maximum sentence.