Barrington police investigate bus company employee for alleged inappropriate touching of student

BARRINGTON, R.I. (WLNE) — A bus company employee is being investigated after a Barrington elementary school student accused them of inappropriate touching, according to Barrington Police Department Chief Michael Correia.

The June 12 incident is being investigated as a potential second-degree sexual assault according to police, and the suspect in the investigation is an employee of Ocean State Transit, the bus company contracted with Barrington Public Schools.

The suspect will not be working on Barrington buses, according to police, and no charges have been filed in the investigation.

An Ocean State Transit spokesperson has released a statement, confirming that the suspect has been placed on immediate leave:

We are fully collaborating with Barrington Public Schools and the Barrington Police Department as they investigate a reported incident that occurred on Thursday, June 12, 2025, involving a company bus monitor.

As a result, this individual has been immediately placed on leave pending the conclusion of the investigation, and all routes have been reassigned. It is the policy of Ocean State Transit to adhere to the highest safety standards in each and every aspect of our operations.  

According to Barrington Public Schools Superintendent Robert Wargo, the district contacted police immediately after receiving the report of the incident and accusations against a bus monitor.

A report was also filed with the Rhode Island Department Children, Youth and Families, and the district initiated its own investigation into the matter.

“All families directly connected to this matter have been contacted by the district and are being supported, including access to school counselors and other professional resources,” said Wargo.

Wargo also stated that the district is working with Ocean State Transit to review the company’s safety protocols and training.