Shenendehowa Bus Driver Arrested for Attempting to Kiss a Student

A Shenendehowa bus driver has been arrested after he allegedly tried to kiss a student. 

Donald Barnes, 49 of Malta, was arrested on Aug 7, 2026, on charges of misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child and 3rd degree sexual abuse.

He is alleged to have tried to kiss a child unrelated to him on the mouth.

According to New York State Police, while Barnes had met the child through his work as a Shenendehowa bus driver, the incident did not occur on school property or at a school sponsored event.

Barnes was initially charged with endangering the welfare of a child; however, further investigation determined that the additional charge was merited. Barnes was arraigned on the sexual abuse charge on Aug 11, 2026. He has since been released.

In a statement to several media outlets, the Shenendehowa School Central School District confirmed that Barnes has since been placed on administrative leave.

The investigation is ongoing with New York State Police encouraging anyone with additional information to contact them at  518-457-6811 or by email at Crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.