Hailey
It’s shocking and upsetting when a parent pushes a child into violence. In Missouri, authorities say a father ordered his 6-year-old daughter to assault another child on a school bus.
This incident raises serious questions about parenting, responsibility, and school safety. Below is what we know, told in a clear, simple way.
What Happened: The Main Story
Authorities in St. Louis County, Missouri say that on a recent school bus ride, a father — Maurice Fox, age 36 — directed his young daughter to attack another girl. The alleged victim was around 7 years old. The case led to an arrest warrant and several charges against Fox.
The Charges Against the Father
Fox faces multiple charges:
- Felony harassment
- Two misdemeanors: assault and trespass on a school bus
These charges were detailed in a complaint filed in St. Louis County Circuit Court. Prosecutors said these accusations are still preliminary and additional charges may come after a grand jury review.
How the Incident Unfolded
According to court papers (called an affidavit) and video footage:
- Fox reportedly boarded the bus around 9 a.m. with his daughter.
- The bus driver tried to stop him, but Fox allegedly pushed the driver’s arm aside and continued.
- The video shows Fox instructing his daughter: “Do what I told you to do.”
- He then told the 7-year-old not to touch his daughter, warning, “If I find out you’re touching her again, your parents are gonna have to talk to me.”
- His daughter struck the other child multiple times in the head.
- Each time she paused, Fox urged her to keep going, saying, “I want her crying, again.”
- After the assault, Fox and his daughter left the bus together.
Reactions & Legal Process
Police & Prosecutor Response
Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle urged Fox to turn himself in or speak with investigators, saying, “You cannot crowdsource accountability.” Warrant(s) are now active for his arrest.
St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Price Smith called the act “completely unacceptable,” noting that an adult cannot enter a school bus and direct his 6-year-old daughter to assault another child.” She also asked: “What kind of world do we live in when a parent teaches conflict through violence?”
Online Fundraiser & Statements
Fox reportedly created an online fundraiser to raise legal defense money. In a public statement, he claimed his motivation was to protect his child in a world that hasn’t protected her.
However:
- The fundraiser was removed by the platform, citing rules against raising money for people charged with violent crimes.
- The platform says they refund donations in such cases.
- At last check, Fox had not been arrested, and he hadn’t responded to phone messages.
- Court records also show no attorney listed to speak on his behalf.
School District’s Role
The Ferguson-Florissant School District said it is fully cooperating with law enforcement. The district called the assault “completely unacceptable” and reiterated that no adult should be able to board a school bus and command violence.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| City / State | St. Louis County, Missouri |
| Father | Maurice Fox, 36 |
| Victim | Around 7 years old |
| Daughter | 6 years old |
| Charges | Felony harassment; misdemeanor assault; trespass of a school bus |
| Video evidence | Yes, shows actions and commands |
| Legal status | At large (arrest warrant issued) |
| Fundraiser | Created, then removed for violating rules |
Why This Case Matters
- Parental responsibility: This situation pushes us to ask what limits a parent should never cross.
- School safety: A school bus is meant to be safe. Breaking into it and ordering violence shakes that trust.
- Violence as conflict resolution: The case teaches a grim lesson if children learn violence to solve problems.
- Legal boundaries: The law treats trespassing, assault, and harassment seriously—regardless of motive.
What Could Happen Next
- Fox may be arrested soon, since a warrant is active.
- Additional charges may be added when the case goes to a grand jury.
- Investigators would likely interview witnesses, review video evidence, and speak with both children and school staff.
- The court may appoint or allow a defense attorney to act for Fox if he cannot.
- The school district will probably review safety, bus surveillance, and entry rules.
This troubling case from Missouri reminds us how important boundaries, safety, and responsible parenting are. What makes the situation ever more alarming is a parent directing a small child to use violence—and doing so on school grounds, on a school bus.
As the legal process moves forward, we will learn more about how the justice system responds, what punishments are given, and how school systems protect children.
This incident raises deep questions about how we teach kids to handle conflict, the limits of parental authority, and the role of law in protecting our most vulnerable.