LOUISA, Va. – A driver for Louisa County schools was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 10-year-old child with special needs.

John Dale Sprouse drove the victim, who has autism, from Louisa County to Richmond so the child could attend classes, according to investigators.

One day the 10-year-old child did not show up to school on time, and when officials questioned Sprouse, investigators said he allegedly told them he ran out of gas.

Investigators said they have evidence that Sprouse assaulted the child multiple times over a two-week period in May.

School officials confirm Sprouse worked for the transportation department in Louisa.

Sources told CBS 6 he was not actually a bus driver, but would drive the victim to Richmond and back in a car.

Sprouse is charged with sodomy, sexual battery, abduction, and taking indecent liberties with a minor.

Lousia County Public Schools released the following statement about the incident:

“We take these extremely troubling allegations very seriously.

Student safety and security is of paramount importance to Louisa county public schools. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement, and we appreciate their efforts in this matter. Mr. Sprouse is no longer employed with Louisa County Public Schools.”

Coming up at 11 p.m., Reporter Jon Burkett will have more details to this developing news story.