Two Hillsborough County Public Schools bus employees were arrested following a shocking child abuse investigation that has drawn widespread attention. Juanita Wright, 79, and Tonya Rice-Constant, 62, were taken into custody after deputies determined that Wright repeatedly abused a 10-year-old student diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. Anyone facing similar charges should immediately consult with our Tampa, FL child endangerment defense lawyer to protect their legal rights and build an effective defense.
The investigation began on November 14, 2025, when a witness reported seeing a school bus aide strike the child while on a bus parked at Caminiti Exceptional School. Video footage reviewed by detectives on November 18 captured Wright repeatedly abusing the child, while Rice-Constant, the bus driver, allegedly laughed and failed to intervene. Further review identified thirteen additional days between October 2 and November 14 in which Wright was observed abusing the child.
Sheriff Chad Chronister described the case as “a level of cruelty that is deeply disturbing,” noting that the child was defenseless and entrusted to adults who not only failed to protect them but actively participated in or condoned the abuse. Wright faces fourteen counts of child abuse, while Rice-Constant was charged with failure to report child abuse. This case highlights the severity of criminal charges that can result when adults entrusted with a child’s safety betray that trust.
How Our Legal Team Can Assist In Child Abuse Charges
Facing child abuse or endangerment charges can be overwhelming, with serious legal consequences including potential prison time, fines, and long-term impacts on employment and personal reputation. Consulting with our experienced Tampa child endangerment defense attorneys is essential to dealing with the legal system effectively. Our team provides guidance on all aspects of the defense process, from initial investigations to courtroom representation.
Our child neglect defense lawyers offer strategic defense in cases involving vulnerable or special-needs children. These cases require careful review of evidence such as video footage, witness statements, and school records, and our experienced child abuse defense attorneys can make sure that the rights of the accused are protected throughout the legal process.
Additionally, our parental endangerment lawyers are skilled in defending clients against charges related to failing to report abuse or indirectly contributing to harm. Our child welfare defense attorneys understand the ins and outs of child endangerment laws and provide representation that prioritizes both legal defense and understanding of family dynamics.
Anyone accused of child endangerment, abuse, or related offenses should contact our Tampa child endangerment defense lawyers at StechLaw Criminal Defense as soon as possible. As dedicated legal advocates and trusted former prosecutors, our child safety violation lawyers offer representation to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and guide you through each step of the legal process. We have been rated by Super Lawyers for the exceptional legal support we provide to all of our clients, regardless of their circumstances. Schedule a consultation today to make sure that your defense is handled with experience, care, and commitment.
