Moorpark Unified School District Transportation Driver Arrested for Suspected DUI
Moorpark, CA — A transportation driver employed by the Moorpark Unified School District was arrested Tuesday, May 28, 2025, on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Jason Watson, was taken into custody after a concerned parent reported suspicious behavior during a routine student pickup. The parent noticed a strong odor of alcohol emanating from Watson as he arrived at a residence to transport a student. Alarmed by the driver’s condition, the parent acted quickly to ensure student safety by requesting that Watson immediately pull over and park the vehicle.
Law enforcement responded promptly. A School Resource Officer and members of Patrol Services were dispatched to perform a well-being check on Watson. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the driver and observed further indications of impairment. Following an on-site investigation, Watson was arrested for driving under the influence.
Representatives from the Moorpark Unified School District also responded to the scene, working closely with Moorpark Patrol Deputies to address the incident. Fortunately, no students were harmed, and officials confirmed that the situation was de-escalated without further incident.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Watson remains in custody pending formal charges. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released information regarding Watson’s blood alcohol content or whether this incident was an isolated occurrence.
In a statement, the Moorpark Unified School District emphasized its commitment to student safety and stated that it is cooperating fully with law enforcement during the investigation. District officials are also reviewing their hiring and monitoring protocols for transportation staff.
“This is a deeply concerning situation that we are treating with the utmost seriousness,” said a district spokesperson. “We are grateful to the vigilant parent who acted swiftly and to our law enforcement partners for their immediate response.”
The incident has raised questions in the community about oversight and the safety of student transportation services. Parents and residents have expressed shock and disappointment, calling for increased accountability and stricter preventative measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Jason Watson is expected to face charges related to DUI while operating a vehicle as part of his duties for the school district. Authorities have not disclosed whether additional charges, such as child endangerment, will be pursued.
The Moorpark Unified School District has assured families that Watson has been removed from all duties pending the outcome of the investigation and that additional safeguards are being reviewed to ensure student safety moving forward.
As the case develops, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with further information to come forward