South Carolina School Bus Driver Charged with DUI While Transporting 51 Elementary Students
NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA — A South Carolina school bus driver has been arrested and charged with DUI and child endangerment after allegedly operating a school bus full of elementary students while impaired, according to WBTV 3.
Authorities say 62-year-old Janice Waldorf was pulled over on September 25 in North Augusta after officers observed her swerving across lanes while transporting 51 Merriwether Elementary School students who were returning from a class field trip.
Driver Allegedly Impaired Behind the Wheel
Law enforcement reports state that Waldorf appeared disoriented during the stop and told officers she was “just tired.” She denied drinking alcohol but mentioned she suffered from medical conditions that occasionally affected her energy levels.
However, field sobriety tests showed clear signs of impairment, leading officers to suspect Waldorf was under the influence of a substance other than alcohol.
She was then taken to the North Augusta Department of Public Safety, where a urine test confirmed the presence of central nervous system depressants — substances that slow brain activity and can dangerously impair reaction time and coordination.
Dozens of Students on Board During DUI Stop
At the time of the stop, Waldorf was behind the wheel of a Merriwether Elementary School bus carrying 51 passengers, including second-grade students and school chaperones.
Authorities confirmed that no children were injured during the incident, though the discovery has deeply unsettled parents and educators across the district.
“This could have ended in tragedy,” one law enforcement official said, emphasizing that the combination of prescription drugs and the responsibility of transporting children is “an unacceptable and dangerous risk.”
Investigation Reveals Multiple Prescription Bottles
When Waldorf was booked into the Aiken County Detention Center, officers discovered 17 prescription pill bottles in her possession — six of which were expired. Officials did not immediately specify which medications were found, but confirmed that their use likely contributed to her impaired state.
Investigators believe the substances were prescription depressants that made her unfit to safely operate a large vehicle.
Community Demands Accountability
Parents and community members are calling for stricter safety checks for school transportation staff following the arrest.
“This is every parent’s nightmare,” one parent said outside Merriwether Elementary. “We trust the district with our kids, and this kind of thing just can’t happen again.”
The Edgefield County School District has not yet released a public statement regarding Waldorf’s employment status or any pending policy changes.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Waldorf is facing multiple charges, including driving under the influence, child endangerment, and possession of controlled substances. Her case is currently being handled through the Aiken County court system.
Authorities have confirmed that the students were safely escorted home after the traffic stop, with assistance from backup transportation arranged by the district.
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