Dorchester 2 Bus Driver Allegedly Strikes Child

Dorchester County Sheriff's Office has arrested a school bus driver for allegedly striking an elementary school student — an allegation he denies. 

Fred Rocquemore, 59, of Summerville has been charged with one count of cruelty to children.

The incident allegedly occurred on Thursday, Feb. 7, and was reportedly caught on the school bus's surveillance video. According to the incident report, Rocquemore is seen leaving his bus driver's seat, walking over to a student and raising his hand to possibly strike the student. Those who viewed the video could not confirm if and where the alleged blow landed on the child, according to the report.

The parent of the child brought the incident to the attention of the school principal, who then reported it to Durham School Services, who employs the driver. 

Rocquemore told authorities in the report that he did not strike the child, but grabbed the child's bookbag and placed it on the child's lap. 

Rocquemore was placed on adminsitrative leave.