Driver Of Overturned School Bus Was Denied Permit For Drug Arrest

Officials say the driver of a school bus that overturned yesterday morning and injured nine children was denied a permit because of a previous drug conviction.

City Safety and Permits Director Zach Smith confirmed that driver Chad Rodney was denied a permit in September for his 2016 conviction for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.

Rodney was released from prison last February on probation after serving three-years and was prevented from getting a permit due to a regulation that keeps felons from operating a school bus within five years of being convicted.

Rodney has been cited for multiple violations, and all nine injured students are expected to recover.