School Bus Driver Found Passed Out Drunk Behind The Wheel: Police

HEMPSTEAD, NY — A school bus driver was arrested Monday afternoon after Nassau County police say she was found passed out drunk behind the wheel of her bus, with multiple children on board.

According to police, Hempstead police officers were called to the intersection of South Franklin Street and Grove Street at 4:50 p.m. Monday to perform a wellness check on a woman who was slumped over the wheel of a school bus.

As the officers approached the driver — Mercedes Parada, 29, of Albemarle Avenue, Hemsptead — police say it became clear to the officers that she was intoxicated.

Parada was placed under arrest. All the children on the bus were safe and accounted for, and released to their parents.

Police say the investigation is ongoing.

Parada is charged with driving while intoxicated, aggravated driving while intoxicated (Leandra's Law) and endangering the welfare of a child. She was arraigned in First District Court in Hemsptead on Tuesday and released with a temporary order of protection.