Boise School Bus Driver Charged With Child Sex Crimes

Kayden Peterson faces multiple felony charges related to alleged crimes involving a minor.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:46pm

An extreme close-up photograph of a set of metal handcuffs against a black background, creating a stark, gritty visual that conceptually represents a criminal investigation.The arrest of a school bus driver accused of child sex crimes exposes the need for tighter supervision and screening of employees who interact with vulnerable students.Boise Today

A 29-year-old Boise school bus driver has been arrested and charged with multiple felony counts of sexual battery, sexual abuse, and lewd conduct with a minor child. Kayden Peterson was taken into custody by the Ada County Sheriff's Office and booked into jail with a $500,000 bond.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the safety and supervision of students being transported by contracted school bus providers, as well as the need for thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring of employees who have access to vulnerable children.

The details

According to authorities, Peterson was employed as a bus driver for a company that provides transportation services to the Boise School District. The alleged crimes were not related to his job duties, but rather stemmed from a prior personal connection to the underage victim. The Ada County Sheriff's Office and Boise School District are cooperating in the investigation, and the district has barred Peterson from further work under the transportation contract.

  • Peterson was arrested on April 7, 2026 around 4:30 p.m.
  • He was booked into the Ada County Jail the same day.

The players

Kayden Peterson

A 29-year-old Boise resident who was employed as a school bus driver and has been charged with multiple felony sex crimes involving a minor.

Ada County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that arrested Peterson and is leading the investigation into the alleged crimes.

Boise School District

The school district that contracted with the transportation provider that employed Peterson, and has barred him from further work under the contract.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant Peterson bail at a hearing scheduled for next week.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical importance of thorough background checks, ongoing monitoring, and strict protocols for any employees who interact with children, in order to protect the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable students.