CHARLOTTE, NC – A former charter school bus driver appeared in court Wednesday facing serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors. Latwain Tate, 48, is being held on a $1 million bond after being charged with multiple sex crimes.
Family members of Tate, who is also known as Ms. Sharon, maintain his innocence despite the charges. Residents in the area where the alleged incidents occurred expressed shock and concern over the situation.
Tate is charged with two counts of statutory rape, six counts of indecent liberties with a minor, and one count of statutory sex offense. Authorities report that there are at least four victims, all boys between the ages of 14 and 15.
The arrest followed a weeks-long investigation, with police detaining Tate on Tuesday. Neighbors described a significant police presence during the arrest, including undercover officers.
Investigators allege that several of the boys stayed at Tate’s residence and were coerced into performing sexual acts. Community members find the accusations deeply unsettling, especially considering the vulnerability of teenagers at that age.
Mary Katherine Elkins from Pat’s Place Child Advocacy Center emphasized the importance of forensic interviews in such cases. These interviews are designed to gather information from children in a manner that is suitable for court proceedings.
Elkins advises parents to maintain open dialogues with their children about personal safety and appropriate interactions with adults. She stresses that even teenagers should understand boundaries and feel empowered to refuse inappropriate advances.
Police suspect there may be additional victims and encourage anyone with information to come forward. Tate’s next court appearance is set for October 16.