Jeffco Public Schools Bus Driver Arrested for Sexual Assault of Child

64-year-old Robert Charles Watters accused of inappropriate relationship with 10-year-old student

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bus driver for Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of felony sexual assault on a child. The Lakewood Police Department announced that Robert Charles Watters, 64, has been driving students on the C-31 bus route since August 2023 and previously drove the C-49 route from 2021-2023. Police are asking anyone with information about Watters or potential victims to come forward.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the safety and supervision of students being transported by school district buses. It also highlights the need for thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring of school employees who have direct contact with children.

The details

Police accuse Watters of having an inappropriate relationship with a 10-year-old student. He is currently being held at the Jefferson County jail. Jeffco Public Schools, the second largest district in Colorado, has not yet commented on the arrest.

  • Watters has worked as a bus driver for Jeffco Public Schools since 2018.
  • He has driven the C-31 bus route for Hutchinson Elementary students since August 2023.
  • Prior to that, he drove the C-49 bus route for the school between 2021-2023.

The players

Robert Charles Watters

A 64-year-old bus driver for Jeffco Public Schools who was arrested on suspicion of felony sexual assault on a child.

Jeffco Public Schools

The second largest school district in Colorado where Watters was employed as a bus driver.

Lakewood Police Department

The law enforcement agency that announced Watters' arrest and is investigating the case.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Police accuse Robert Charles Watters, 64, of having an inappropriate relationship with a 10-year-old student.”

— Lakewood Police Department

What’s next

The Lakewood Police Department is asking that anyone with information about Watters, including whether they have been a victim, to contact the department's tip line at 303-763-6800.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical importance of thorough background checks, ongoing monitoring, and strict protocols to protect the safety of students being transported by school district employees. It also underscores the need for swift action and a zero-tolerance policy when allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors arise.