(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte woman is accused of driving a school bus with children on board while impaired. 

 

Kayla Pier, 38, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with operating while intoxicated and neglect of a dependent as Level 6 felonies. Authorities said Pier was driving a bus in late September from La Porte Middle School to Riley Elementary School with 32 students on board at the time. During the trip, school officials responded to reports from students about her driving and other behaviors. Pier was removed from the bus and given a toxicology test.  She resigned from her position later in the day.

 

Two months later, additional evidence, that included witness statements and video surveilance, was presented to a judge who ruled the case the strong enough for Pier to be charged with allegations. Pier could face up to 30 months on each count.

 

After a warrant was filed for her arrest, Pier turned herself in at the La Porte County Jail Friday. She was later released after bond was posted on her behalf, police said.

 

“The courageous students aboard the bus who reported the behaviors of the accused are publicly commended. Their attention to detail and prompt actions may have prevented a tragedy from occurring,” said La Porte County Police Capt. Derek Allen.