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(North Vernon, IN) – Police in Jennings County have arrested a 15-year-old student after they say the teen sexually assaulted a seven-year-old student while riding a special needs school bus.
The identities of the involved students have not been released.
Andy Judd, Jennings County juvenile probation officer, tells News 8 the incident happened on April 16.
On April 17, police were notified of the assault, and the student was arrested on a preliminary charge of rape. They were later placed in secure detention.
The investigation was ongoing as of Monday. News 8 has reached out to the Jennings County prosecutor for charging confirmation.
Judd confirmed to News 8 the 15-year-old was given a court appointed attorney.
A statement from the Jennings County School Corporation says officials are “aware of a significant concern” regarding the assault and are reviewing safety protocols.
The suspect has another court hearing later this week and is currently being held at a juvenile detention center.
(Story by Network Indiana/WISH TV)