Charlotte NC, October 1, 2025
News Summary
Leetwain Darrell Tate, a former school bus driver in Charlotte, has been arrested on multiple charges including statutory rape and indecent liberties with minors. The Crimes Against Children Unit’s investigation revealed disturbing allegations involving teens aged 14 to 15. Following her arrest, Tate was terminated from her position at Sugar Creek Charter School, raising concerns among parents regarding employee vetting procedures. Authorities are calling for anyone with further information to come forward as they suspect there may be additional victims.
Charlotte, NC – Former Charter School Bus Driver Arrested on Multiple Sex Crime Charges Involving Teens
Leetwain Darrell Tate, 48, also known as “Sharon” or “Ms. Sharon,” was arrested on September 30, 2025, by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team. Tate faces serious charges including two counts of statutory rape, six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, and one count of statutory sex offense related to alleged sexual crimes against juveniles aged 14 to 15 years.
The arrest came as part of an investigation conducted by the department’s Crimes Against Children Unit, which revealed disturbing details about Tate’s interactions with minors. Reports indicate that multiple young individuals reportedly stayed at Tate’s residence, with at least one victim claiming they were offered money for sexual acts.
In response to the allegations, Tate was suspended from her role as a school bus driver at Sugar Creek Charter School during the investigation. Her employment was officially terminated on September 29, 2025, just one day before her arrest. It is important to note that the alleged crimes did not occur on school property or while Tate was operating a school bus.
Authorities are urging anyone with further information regarding the case to come forward, as police believe additional victims may exist. They are specifically asking for public assistance to ensure all related incidents are brought to light.
The leadership at Sugar Creek Charter School has expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the safety and well-being of their students. In light of the charges, the school is offering counseling services to both students and faculty members to help them cope with the unsettling news.
Parents at Sugar Creek Charter School have raised inquiries regarding the background check procedures for staff members, highlighting the importance of thorough vetting processes in preventing incidents like this from happening in the future.
To provide information related to the case, individuals are encouraged to contact Detective King at 704-336-7495 or reach out to Pat’s Place Child Advocacy Center at 704-335-2760. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the P3 Tips mobile app or through the Charlotte Crime Stoppers website.
Summary of Charges Against Leetwain Darrell Tate
- Charges: Two counts of statutory rape, six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, one count of statutory sex offense.
- Victims: Alleged incidents involve juveniles aged 14 to 15 years.
- Employment: Former school bus driver at Sugar Creek Charter School, suspended during investigation, terminated on September 29, 2025.
- Investigation: Conducted by the Crimes Against Children Unit; suspects the presence of additional victims.
- Possible motives: Reports suggest offering money for sexual acts.
- School response: Counseling services for students and staff; inquiries into background checks from parents.
Key Contacts for Information
- Detective King: 704-336-7495
- Pat’s Place Child Advocacy Center: 704-335-2760
- Anonymous tips: P3 Tips mobile app or Charlotte Crime Stoppers website
Background Context
The charter school system is established to provide alternative education options, often using specialized staff. Safety measures and protocols are paramount to protect students, which makes incidents like this particularly troubling for families and educators alike. Schools conduct background checks to screen potential employees, and parents’ concerns regarding these processes highlight the need for continual improvement in safety practices.
FAQ
Who was arrested?
Leetwain Darrell Tate, 48, also known as “Sharon” or “Ms. Sharon,” was arrested on September 30, 2025.
What charges does Leetwain Darrell Tate face?
She faces charges of two counts of statutory rape, six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, and one count of statutory sex offense.
Who are the alleged victims?
The charges involve alleged sexual crimes against juveniles aged 14 to 15 years.
What actions did the school take after the investigation began?
Tate was suspended during the investigation and terminated from her position on September 29, 2025.
Did the alleged crimes occur on school property?
No, the alleged crimes did not occur on school property or while Tate was operating a school bus.
How can someone provide information related to the case?
Anyone with information related to the case can contact Detective King at 704-336-7495 or Pat’s Place Child Advocacy Center at 704-335-2760.
Key Features of the Arrest and Charges
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrest Date | September 30, 2025 |
| Charges | Two counts of statutory rape, six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, one count of statutory sex offense |
| Victim Age Range | 14 to 15 years |
| Suspension Status | Suspended during investigation, terminated on September 29, 2025 |
| Location of Incidents | Not on school property or during bus operation |
| Public Appeal | Police believe there may be additional victims and are seeking information |
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Charlotte, NC – Former Charter School Bus Driver Arrested
- WBTV: Former Charlotte Charter School Bus Driver Charged with Sex Crimes Against Children
- Charlotte Observer: Former School Bus Driver Charged with Sex Crimes
- WCCB: Former School Bus Driver Known as Ms. Sharon Charged with Sexually Assaulting Teens
- Google Search: Charlotte NC Charter School sex crimes
- Wikipedia: Child sexual abuse
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
