NICHOLAS EMMS FROM DEFFORD DRIVES SCHOOL BUS DESPITE CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN WORCESTERSHIRE

In a disturbing revelation, Nicholas Emms, a 35-year-old man from Defford, Worcestershire, continues to operate as a school bus driver despite having a criminal history involving child sexual offenses. Emms, who is married and has children of his own, is responsible for transporting pupils aged nine to thirteen to and from school on a daily basis. His role is managed by Ann’s Executive Coaches, a company based in Pershore, Worcestershire, which holds the county council’s contract to provide transportation services for local schools.

Shockingly, Emms was cleared by local council officials to work in this capacity after they reviewed his criminal record and determined that his past conviction was not severe enough to warrant a ban from working with children. This decision has raised serious concerns among parents, teachers, and child safety advocates, especially considering the nature of his previous conviction.

In 1989, Emms was sentenced to two years’ probation at Worcester Crown Court after being convicted of indecently assaulting a girl under the age of 14. Despite this, he now works without supervision, raising questions about the thoroughness of the vetting process used by the council and the safety protocols in place for school transportation.

A source within the bus company expressed disbelief that someone with a sex offense conviction against a child would be permitted to drive a school bus. The source questioned whether the risk was truly worth it, highlighting the potential danger posed to vulnerable children.

Emms, who resides in Defford, Worcestershire, defended his position by stating, “I would be concerned if someone with similar convictions was driving my children to school. But there is nothing to be concerned about. The kids know me — we have fun.” He also attempted to downplay his past, claiming, “Everybody was having a laugh in those days,” referring to the incident that led to his conviction when he was a teenager.

Despite his assurances, the decision by the council to clear him for work has sparked outrage. Critics argue that allowing a person with a history of child sexual offenses to transport schoolchildren is a grave oversight. The controversy underscores ongoing debates about the adequacy of background checks and the safety measures in place for safeguarding children in educational environments.