Carla Padgett was arrested on January 16 after hitting two vehicles in a single morning while driving a school bus. After the first incident in which Padgett failed to stop and help the other driver, she went on to hit a second vehicle before being stopped by police. There were no children on the bus during either collision.
After being stopped, Padgett showed signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes, an odor of alcohol, a heightened emotional state, and difficulty following verbal instructions from officers.
Padgett was released on bond pending her court date. FCPS policy indicates that any employees under criminal investigation are banned from FCPS property. The district also conducts an internal investigation parallel to criminal proceedings. If behavior suggests a violation of the employee code of conduct, the district may take action prior to any verdict. FCPS prioritizes student safety above all else, and takes employee misconduct seriously.
