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A student’s decision to confide in a professor has exposed a disturbing case of sexual abuse, resulting in the arrest of a Walton County bus driver. On October 14, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCS) was notified by campus police after a professor reported that a student had revealed being sexually abused. The victim, aged 16 to 17, provided investigators with detailed accounts and recordings supporting her allegations, according to CBS 12.
The suspect, 45-year-old Charles Marcello Buono, was located at his residence and questioned by deputies. While initially denying the accusations, Buono later admitted to appearing in one of the videos presented as evidence and confirmed the nature of the acts described. He was arrested without incident on Tuesday night and booked into Walton County Jail.
Buono faces charges of lewd and lascivious molestation by an adult 24 years or older on a victim aged 16 to 17. His bond has been set at $100,000, and he remains in custody. Sheriff Michael Adkinson condemned the crimes, stating, “What happened here is nothing short of evil. Crimes like this shake our sense of humanity, and we will not rest until justice is served.”
Buono, employed as a school bus driver for Walton County School District, was immediately suspended following his arrest. The district has confirmed plans to recommend his termination at an upcoming board meeting. In addition to his role with the school district, Buono was also employed as a contractor for the Department of Defense through the Defense Health Agency.
Officials clarified that the charges do not involve Buono’s role as a bus driver or students on his route. However, investigators are not ruling out the possibility of additional victims and are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office commended the victim for her bravery and the swift response of college staff. To protect the victim’s identity, specific details are being withheld. The investigation remains active, and authorities have indicated that further charges may be forthcoming.
When a trusted figure violates their position of responsibility, the impact on victims and their families can be devastating. Michael Haggard, a seasoned Florida attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases, discusses the legal avenues available to families seeking accountability and support after incidents involving school bus drivers. His perspective offers guidance on holding perpetrators and institutions accountable while helping survivors access the resources they need to begin rebuilding their lives.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal options are available for families of victims who have experienced abuse by someone in a position of trust, like a school bus driver?
Attorney Michael Haggard: Families have several legal paths they can consider. First, they can pursue a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator directly for damages related to the abuse, such as emotional trauma, therapy costs, and other impacts on the victim's life. Beyond that, if the perpetrator was employed by an organization, such as a school district, the institution itself could be held accountable if negligence is proven.
Medina: What does proving negligence look like in these cases?
Haggard: It often involves demonstrating that the employer failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored red flags, or failed to act on previous complaints or misconduct. If the institution neglected its duty to protect students, they could face liability as well.
Medina: For families who are hesitant to take legal action, what would you say to them?
Haggard: I understand it’s an incredibly difficult decision. But legal action isn’t just about accountability; it’s also about ensuring resources are available for the victim’s recovery and helping to prevent others from being harmed in the future. Consulting with an attorney can help families understand their options without committing to any immediate action.
If you or your loved one has been affected by sexual abuse involving a trusted authority figure, you don’t have to face this alone. Our team is here to provide support, guidance, and answers. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore your legal options and take action to protect your family’s future.
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