Mistrial Declared for Bus Driver

Sergio Sandoval, the former Ocean Springs school bus driver accused of sexually abusing a student in 2014 was taken from court in handcuffs after a mistrial was declared.
This comes after Sandoval made several trips to the hospital after what doctors called a stress induced episode, putting his trial on hold pending a psychiatric evaluation.
Today, the court heard from several witnesses including a psychiatric nurse who expressed her belief that his behavior at the hospital indicated he may have been malingering.
Several family members also took the stand saying Sandoval was not himself the past couple days and has had a tough time communicating.
A clinical psychologist who evaluated Sandoval Wednesday evening claimed he could not make a determination as to whether or not he was competent to stand trial. Because he could not make this determination, Judge Jackson declared a mistrial and ordered Sandoval in custody until a full psychiatric evaluation is made.
District Attorney Tony Lawrence said, “It’s frustrating but it’s certainly understandable and it is our laws. We all have to live by the law. So it will be reset for trial. We’re all waiting for the evaluation to occur. The court will have to make that decision and once the court makes that decision the state will be ready to go to trial again.”
Ocean Springs School District Attorney Alwyn Luckey said, “Well having heard the testimony of the psychologist who briefly examined Mr. Sandoval, I think it was clear the court had to order a mental evaluation. Obviously we are very disappointed to be two days into trial and have a mistrial over such an important case for justice to be done.”
The judge plans to reset the trial to April. A new jury from George County will have to be chosen.