Boise school bus driver arrested on lewd conduct charges

Kayden Peterson had a 'prior personal connection to the victim unrelated to his employment', police say.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:37am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a school bus key fob against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the serious investigation into a school bus driver's alleged misconduct.A harsh flash photograph of a school bus key fob highlights the critical need for strict safety protocols and oversight of all school transportation employees.Boise Today

A 29-year-old school bus driver in Boise, Idaho has been arrested on suspicion of sexual battery of a minor, sexual abuse of a child, and lewd conduct with a minor. Kayden Peterson, who worked for a bus operator serving the Boise School District, had a prior personal connection to the victim that was unrelated to his employment, according to police.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about the vetting and oversight of school transportation employees, as well as the need for robust safety protocols to protect students. The Boise School District has emphasized its commitment to student safety and cooperation with law enforcement.

The details

Police arrested Kayden Peterson on Tuesday afternoon on charges including two counts of lewd conduct with a minor under 16 years old. The Boise School District immediately notified the bus provider, Durham School Services, that Peterson is no longer allowed to work under their contract. The district also sent a letter to parents about the arrest, stating that they had received no prior reports regarding Peterson and that every bus in their fleet is equipped with cameras.

  • Police arrested Kayden Peterson on Tuesday afternoon.

The players

Kayden Peterson

A 29-year-old school bus driver who worked for a bus operator serving the Boise School District and has been arrested on suspicion of sexual battery of a minor, sexual abuse of a child, and lewd conduct with a minor.

Boise School District

The school district that contracted with the bus operator employing Kayden Peterson. The district notified the bus provider that Peterson is no longer allowed to work under their contract and sent a letter to parents about the arrest.

Durham School Services

The bus operator that employed Kayden Peterson and served the Boise School District.

Ada County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that arrested Kayden Peterson and is investigating the case.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Thursday whether or not to allow Kayden Peterson to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical importance of thorough background checks, ongoing monitoring, and strict safety protocols for all school transportation employees to protect vulnerable students. It also underscores the need for open communication between school districts, law enforcement, and families when such incidents occur.