Grafton, Massachusetts — A school transportation case has raised serious safety concerns in Grafton after police arrested a school bus driver accused of deviating from his assigned route and making unauthorized stops while transporting children.
Authorities say the driver now faces multiple felony charges, including kidnapping, following an investigation into alleged crimes involving students.
The Grafton Police Department confirmed in a press release that a 54-year-old man from Worcester was arrested Wednesday, January 14, after investigators uncovered evidence suggesting improper conduct while he was working as a school bus driver in the community.
Multiple Felony Charges Filed
Police said the suspect has been charged with two counts of kidnapping, reckless endangerment of a child, misleading a police investigation, and tampering with evidence. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active and that additional charges could still be filed as more information becomes available.
“The individual was employed as a school bus driver and transported children in Grafton,” police stated, confirming the seriousness of the allegations.
Officials did not disclose how many students were on the bus at the time of the alleged incidents or the length of the route deviation.
Superintendent Confirms Unauthorized Stops
In a statement posted on the district’s website, Jay Cummings, superintendent of Grafton Public Schools, addressed families directly and acknowledged the incident.
“The previously employed AA Transportation driver deviated from his route with students in the vehicle and made unauthorized stops,” Cummings said.
He added that district officials are in direct contact with affected families and are offering resources and support as the situation continues to unfold.
Transportation Company and Police Cooperation
The driver was employed by AA Transportation, which provides transportation services for the district. Police confirmed the suspect is no longer employed by the company.
Authorities also clarified that the man was not assigned to general student transportation routes, though they did not elaborate on the specific nature of his assignment.
Police said the school district has contacted all families whose children may have had any interaction with the suspect.
Suspect Identified, Court Appearance Held
The Worcester County District Attorney’s Office identified the suspect as Redi Gace, according to officials.
Gace was arraigned Wednesday in Westboro District Court, where a judge set bail at $50,000.
Police confirmed that if bail is posted, Gace will be placed on house arrest with GPS monitoring, a condition meant to limit contact with the community while the case proceeds.
Police Reassure Families Amid Investigation
In their statement, Grafton police acknowledged the anxiety such allegations can cause, particularly when children are involved.
“The safety and well-being of our community’s children is our highest priority,” the department said. “We understand that news of this arrest may cause concern among parents and families.”
Police said they are working closely with school officials and the transportation provider to ensure student safety moving forward.
Guidance for Parents and Guardians
Authorities urged parents to speak with their children about the situation in an age-appropriate manner and to reinforce the importance of communication.
Police encouraged families to teach children to report any concerning behavior to a trusted adult.
Officials stressed that no further details could be released at this time due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.
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Broader Questions About Student Transportation Safety
The case has renewed discussion in the community about oversight, route monitoring, and safeguards within school transportation systems. Parents and residents have expressed concern about how route deviations are tracked and how quickly irregular activity is detected.
While officials have not indicated systemic failures, the incident highlights how even short deviations or unauthorized stops can have serious legal and safety consequences.
What Happens Next
Investigators continue to review evidence and interview those connected to the case. Prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges as the investigation develops.
School officials say student safety protocols are being reviewed, and police say they remain committed to transparency as legally permitted.
As the case moves forward, residents are watching closely for updates that could shape future transportation policies in the district.
What steps do you think schools and transportation companies should take to prevent incidents like this and reassure families about student safety? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
