North Carolina Transgender School Bus Driver Called ‘Ms. Sharon’ Accused of Child Sex Crimes
A 48-year-old transgender school bus driver in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been arrested and charged with multiple sex crimes involving teenage boys.
Leetwain Darrell Tate, who goes by the name “Ms. Sharon,” was taken into custody Tuesday. He faces two counts of statutory rape and six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, according to police.
Authorities allege Tate lured at least four boys, ages 14 and 15, to his home, where the assaults reportedly occurred. In one instance, a victim claimed Tate offered him money in exchange for sex.
Tate was employed as a school bus driver at Sugar Creek Charter School. While the allegations do not involve incidents on school property or during bus routes, the school initially suspended him pending the investigation and officially terminated his employment on September 30.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said they were first alerted in early September after a parent reported a suspected assault involving her child near Peachtree Road and Corvis Road.
Investigators say digital evidence and victim interviews supported the charges and believe more victims may exist. The department is asking anyone with information to contact Detective King at 704-336-7495 or submit anonymous tips to Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Charlotte, N.C. — A trans person who works as a school bus driver has been arrested on suspicion of child s—x crimes.
Leetwain “Sharon” Darrell Tate allegedly lured underage boys to his home, where they were allegedly s—xually assaulted. Tate is a school bus driver for… pic.twitter.com/SGFS6jY9tz
— Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) October 5, 2025
Tate is being held on a $1 million secured bond and is expected to appear in court later this month.