Kiarra Jones: Calls increase to upgrade assault charge against school bus aide accused of abusing autistic children
If you or someone you know may be the victim of child abuse, please contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child (1-800-422-4453) or contact their live chat services.
ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO: The case of Kiarra Jones, a former Littleton school bus assistant accused of repeatedly abusing disabled children, has sparked outrage and calls for justice as community members demand upgraded charges against her.
Jones, 28, was initially arrested on charges of crimes against at-risk adults/juveniles and third-degree assault after allegedly striking at least three students under her care.
Kiarra Jones allegedly abused vulnerable children
The investigation began when the Englewood Police Department received information from the Littleton Police Department regarding potential child abuse on a Littleton Public Schools bus.
Surveillance footage from the bus revealed disturbing scenes of Jones physically abusing the vulnerable children, including pulling their hair, elbowing them in the face, stomach, and back, and flicking their faces. Despite the children's inability to communicate verbally, their distress during these episodes was evident, with both boys crying on multiple occasions.
Victims families notice disturbing injuries and behavioral changes in children
Families observed concerning changes in their children's behavior, along with physical injuries such as scratches, bruises, a lost tooth, a broken toe, a black eye, and other deep bruises on their bodies and feet.
An arrest warrant was issued for Jones on April 4, leading to her subsequent arrest and booking at the Arapahoe County Jail. However, she was released after posting a $5,000 bond, raising further concerns among advocates for the victims.
Calls increase for justice in Kiarra Jones case
Jones, now 29, initially faced low-level felony assault charges, prompting a petition urging authorities to upgrade the charges to first-degree assault. Community members expressed concern that the current charges might not adequately reflect the severity of Jones' actions and the harm inflicted upon the children.
By signing this petition, there is a possibility that the judge may opt to elevate the repeated offender charges to first-degree assault, ensuring accountability and the imposition of prison time.
