Bus Driver Investigation Ends

Former Yelm bus driver Mr. Ruiz has been cleared of all allegations related to his employment, with a detailed investigation finding no evidence to support claims of inappropriate touching or offensive language. Despite being placed on administrative leave earlier this year, he’s now cleared to return to work starting September 3rd — though he’ll be required to complete additional student management training. The case initially surfaced in January 2024 after a student reported concerning behavior, but interviews with others didn’t fully corroborate those claims. Crucially, Mr. Ruiz had already resigned from the district, effective August 31, 2025 — a resignation formally approved by the board in August 2025. Separately and unrelated to the school investigation, Mr. Ruiz was arrested by the FBI in April 2024 on serious child molestation and rape charges — the superintendent confirmed these allegations do not involve Yelm students and that the suspect remains in custody. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d5e063a53b26ec74