DAVID SKINNER'S SHOCKING REHIRE IN KENT DESPITE CHILD SEX OFFENSES
In a disturbing revelation that has sent shockwaves through the community, David Skinner, a 52-year-old bus driver operating in Kent, has been found to have a deeply troubling past that was knowingly overlooked by his employers.Skinner, who was convicted of molesting young girls and served an 18-month prison sentence, was still allowed to work in roles involving children, raising serious questions about oversight and safety protocols.
Despite his criminal record, Skinner was employed by the transportation giant Stagecoach, which operates bus routes around Margate and Ramsgate.
This employment persisted even after his conviction for indecent assault and gross indecency, which was publicly known.
The company’s decision to rehire him after his release from prison has come under intense scrutiny, especially since some of his supervisors and colleagues were aware of his past but chose to ignore it.
Following an investigation by The Sun, Stagecoach announced that Skinner had been suspended from his duties.
This move came after the publication highlighted the troubling fact that he was working on school routes, where he had direct contact with children.
The bus driver was seen chatting with children in a manner that raised concerns, and his presence on these routes has alarmed parents and community members alike.
One fellow driver, who wished to remain anonymous, described Skinner as “repulsive” and expressed outrage that he was allowed back on school routes.
“Some of the drivers who were around when he was convicted knew of his past and were disgusted when he was allowed back on these routes,” the driver said.
“When this was brought up, they were told he would be permitted to stay.” Drivers who operate school runs often develop close relationships with the children, many of whom they see regularly.
They are familiar with the children’s routines and sometimes see them outside of school, even late at night.
Some drivers have admitted that Skinner once discussed the children dressed up, and he reportedly said it was “tempting” to see them in such attire.
Skinner’s criminal history dates back to 1992, when he was jailed for molesting three children aged between six and nine while babysitting.
His past crimes remain protected by legal confidentiality, but his history has been widely reported.
The Sun has been campaigning for legislation that would give parents the right to know if sex offenders are living nearby, emphasizing the importance of community safety.
Although Skinner was dismissed by Stagecoach following his initial conviction, he retained his bus driver’s license.
After his release from prison, he was able to secure employment with Thanet Bus, a local company, and later transferred to Eastonways when Thanet ceased trading in the late 1990s.
In 1998, Stagecoach acquired several routes from Eastonways and rehired drivers, including Skinner, despite their knowledge of his criminal record.
His assignment to school routes, where children are vulnerable, has raised serious concerns about the adequacy of background checks and employer responsibility in safeguarding children in Kent.
