Sex offender school bus driver Vallo Toomet returned to driving children in Raplamaa

Vallo Toomet, who was fired after inappropriate conduct in front of children on a school bus, was rehired on the same route a few months later. A parent who recognised the man on the Raplamaa school line has accused the bus company of disregarding child safety. The police have launched a misdemeanour investigation.

A man is now working as a school bus driver in Raplamaa — the last place he should be given his background: Vallo Toomet has previously been convicted of paedophilia and was recently fired from a school bus route after behaving inappropriately in front of children — exposing his underwear to them. Yet just a few months later, he was back behind the wheel of the same school route.

A parent who recognised the man as a bus driver immediately raised the alarm. According to them, it is unacceptable to place someone with a known history of sexual crime in a position of responsibility for child safety. The parent has accused the bus company of irresponsibility and endangering children's safety.

Company admits fault

The bus company has acknowledged the mistake. Company representatives explained that the decision was driven by a staff shortage — they could not quickly find a suitable replacement. This explanation has not satisfied parents or the authorities, as child safety cannot be compromised due to staffing problems.

Police launch investigation

The police have learned of the incident and have launched a misdemeanour investigation. The consequences for both the driver and the company will become clear as the investigation proceeds. However, the case raises a broader question: how are background checks conducted for employees of companies providing school transport, and who is responsible for ensuring that people convicted of crimes do not work in positions involving contact with children?