PASCO CO., Fla. (WFLA) — A Pasco County Schools bus driver resigned after parents claimed he intentionally slammed on the brakes to teach children a lesson about staying in their seats and unruly behavior.

Parents said the moving school of hard knocks on bus N215 caused bumps and bruises, with one sudden stop reportedly sending a child into emergency exit equipment at the front of the vehicle.

One parent who asked not to be identified out of concern for retribution against their child said parents felt their complaints were ignored.

“There were complaints from numerous parents and fellow bus drivers about unsafe driving,” the parent said. “We were told he’s a new driver. He’s still learning.” 

The parent said that response was not a valid excuse when the safety of children is involved.

Parents said they first complained in December about the driver but added that it did not seem that anything was done about it.

Then, there was another incident in January involving injuries after a sudden stop, according to a parent.

8 On Your Side started inquiring about the claims last Tuesday. On Friday, the district indicated the bus driver was no longer employed by the county.

Pasco County Schools Public Information Officer Corey Dierdorff said district staff reviewed bus surveillance video after the December claim but did not see visual evidence that supported the complaint.

Dierdorff said after the January incident, the driver was called in for questioning and resigned.

“Pasco County Schools takes allegations such as these very seriously,” Dierdorff said. “Following an internal investigation, the driver in question is no longer employed by the school district.”

Dierdorff acknowledged the driver was “new,” but said he did not think the recent shortage of drivers in Pasco and other districts played a role in the issue.

According to Dierdorff, the driver shortage issue has improved in Pasco.

8 On Your Side requested the name of the driver but so far his identity has not been released.

A request for the video from the bus incidents was denied. The district cited Florida law that states recordings “retained as student records” are not public record.

“Videos are not subject to public record without a subpoena,” an email from the district said.