Alsobrooks says time-table for action in alleged bus aide abuse case 'unacceptable'

WASHINGTON - "I'm a mother and I have to tell you that I am absolutely disgusted and irate about the allegations," Angela Alsobrooks said after hearing the mother of a child who was allegedly sexually abused by a bus aide speak with FOX 5.

Alsobrooks, the State's Attorney for Prince George's County, spoke with us on the air Friday morning regarding the sexual abuse claims.

The alleged incidents were said to have begun last year and resulted in the arrest of Michael Patopie who now faces child abuse and sexual abuse charges.

When FOX 5 spoke with the mother of one of the children who was allegedly sexually abused, she told us that her child now struggles with their emotions.

"He is not the same," mom said through tears. "He is always quiet. Now he has these bouts of anger. He doesn't want to be touched … Bath time is a challenge. I have to talk him through bath time. ''I'm mommy. I'm not trying to hurt you.' It shouldn't be like this."

Alsobrooks said that she agreed with complaints made that the time table for action in this case was unacceptable. Initial reports of the abuse were made in November of last year, however, action was not taken until recently.

"When they reached the police, we had an opportunity to investigate and we have filed charges in this case," she said regarding the reports of abuse. "But the reporting period was unacceptable and is something that has to change." She said that her office became aware of the incident in the last month or so.

The incidents allegedly involved a 4-year-old and 5-year-old who attend James Ryder Randall Elementary School in Clinton, but Alsobrooks said that case is still open and under investigation. If other victims surface, she said, appropriate charges will be filed.