LITTLETON, COLORADO — Kiarra Jones, a 30-year-old former school bus aide, has pleaded guilty to assaulting at least three nonverbal students with autism. The plea comes after disturbing video footage revealed a pattern of abuse against the vulnerable children entrusted to her care.
Guilty Plea Halts Trial
Jones appeared in court Monday and pleaded guilty to 10 counts of third-degree felony assault on an at-risk child and two counts of misdemeanor child abuse. She had been scheduled to face a jury but opted to take a plea deal instead.
She now faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 18.
Video Revealed "Torture and Torment"
The investigation began in March 2024 after a student returned home with unexplained bruises on his foot. When the child's mother requested a review of bus surveillance footage, investigators discovered that Jones had struck the boy and other students on multiple occasions.
Surveillance video released by the families shows Jones elbowing and slapping a 10-year-old boy in the face and stomping on his feet. The victims, who attended The Joshua School for students with autism, suffered severe injuries including fractured bones and a knocked-out tooth.
Parents Express Heartbreak and Frustration
Kevin Yarborough, the father of one victim, expressed mixed emotions following the hearing. He noted the frustration of having to be the voice for his nonverbal son but was relieved that Jones finally took accountability after two years of delays.
Another parent stated, "They took my trust and spit on it," describing the betrayal felt by families who believed their children were safe. The mother of one victim said she was initially told by the school district that there was nothing to be concerned about until police intervened.
District Response and Legal Action
Littleton Public Schools fired Jones the same day they reviewed the footage in March 2024. In a letter to parents, the district stated that such behavior "cannot be and is not tolerated."
The families have hired legal representation, commending prosecutors for bringing charges against Jones for what their lawyer described as "unspeakable and inhumane acts."
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