PENNSYLVANIA — State police are investigating a school van driver accused of harassing a 15-year-old girl during a morning pickup on Circle Drive in Rostraver Township.
According to investigators, the incident occurred Thursday morning. The driver, identified as 73-year-old Daryl Nichols of Mlaker Transportation, allegedly touched the student’s leg while she sat in the front seat of the van.
Police said video from the vehicle showed the contact lasting for more than a minute. Nichols then reportedly hugged the girl, asked for a kiss, and told her he had dreamed about the two of them being lost together. When she refused, he allegedly asked “Why not?” before motioning for an air kiss and telling her to smile.
The girl told police the encounter made her uncomfortable and said she would not have hugged Nichols if others had been present.
Nichols has been charged with indecent assault, corruption of minors, and careless driving.
Mlaker Transportation released a statement saying, “We are working with the appropriate officials to review the alleged incident. The safety of our students is our top priority.”
