North Carolina Bus Driver Facing Serious Allegations
A Charlotte community is reeling after the arrest of a former school bus driver accused of sexually assaulting multiple teenage boys. The suspect, 48-year-old Leetwain Darrell Tate — who also goes by the name “Ms. Sharon” — was taken into custody Tuesday and now faces a slew of charges related to the alleged abuse of at least four boys, aged 14 and 15.
According to multiple news reports, authorities allege that Tate lured the boys to his home, where the assaults reportedly occurred. One of the victims told police that Tate offered him money in exchange for sexual acts — a claim that investigators say is consistent with other evidence gathered during the ongoing investigation. Officials are now warning that more victims may be out there.
Male bus driver who goes by ‘Ms Sharon’ charged with sexually abusing multiple boys https://t.co/dT853FN7Dl pic.twitter.com/Y9hXBP1VG8
— New York Post (@nypost) October 5, 2025
Tate had been employed as a bus driver for Sugar Creek Charter School in Charlotte but was initially suspended when the allegations came to light. The school officially terminated his employment on September 30.
Importantly, law enforcement has emphasized that none of the alleged crimes occurred on school grounds or during his duties as a bus driver — a clarification that, while significant, does little to ease concerns among parents and residents already rattled by the disturbing developments.
Court documents confirm that Tate is currently being held on a $1 million secured bond. Police were first alerted to the case in early September after a parent notified authorities that her child had been assaulted. Officers responded to the area of Peachtree Road and Corvis Road, where the investigation began in earnest. Detectives later stated that victim interviews, along with digital evidence recovered from electronic devices, substantiated the accusations against Tate.
Charlotte, N.C. — A trans person who works as a school bus driver has been arrested on suspicion of child s—x crimes.
Leetwain "Sharon" Darrell Tate allegedly lured underage boys to his home, where they were allegedly s—xually assaulted. Tate is a school bus driver for… pic.twitter.com/SGFS6jY9tz
— Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) October 5, 2025
Two felony charges of statutory rape and six counts of indecent liberties with a minor have been filed. The case is scheduled to return to court later this month as the investigation continues.
Law enforcement officials are urging the public to come forward with any additional information. Detective King can be reached at 704-336-7495, and tips can be submitted anonymously through Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
