A former bus driver for the Lucia Mar Unified School District who admitted to sexually molesting a disabled 9-year-old girl in 2017 was sentenced Wednesday morning to 16 years in state prison.
The ruling against David Lamb was handed down in a San Luis Obispo courtroom after the 50-year-old entered into a plea agreement earlier this year.
The victim’s family was reportedly pleased with the plea since it meant the girl would not have to testify at trial.
In court Wednesday, letters were presented from several people, including Lamb’s wife and mother, expressing their disbelief in the case.
Lamb stated he was “Glad there is closure here” with the case being over.
Lamb is requesting to serve his time at the California Men’s Colony in San Luis Obispo. He was also ordered to pay a $9,600 fine and must register as a sex offender.
Prosecutors have called for non-economic restitution, meaning Lamb could have to pay for the psychological damage and counseling that the DA’s Office says will likely be needed for the victim.
A civil suit has also been filed against the Lucia Mar Unified School District and Lamb.
The girl’s guardians said Lamb molested the victim several times over a four-month period while driving her to school. They claim that despite their repeated complaints and evidence on bus cameras, school employees did nothing to stop the abuse.
Previous coverage:
Lawyers release new details, video in suit against school district over alleged child abuse
