The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
When a woman at a school board meeting regarding school children wearing face coverings reportedly would not wear a face mask after being told that she must, she allegedly caused a ruckus leading to her arrest.
On November 10, the Pinellas County School Board held a meeting in Largo to discuss the wearing of face masks in all school buildings to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Many parents on both sides of the issue were in attendance waiting to express their concerns.
40-year-old Kari L. Turner reportedly went to address the board at the meeting with two of her children in tow.
According to the police, Turner went into the administration building without a mask on, and the sergeant of the Pinellas County School District Police Department reportedly told her she had to wear one or exit the premises.
The mom allegedly took a strong stance against following the instruction, and other school officials began to help the officer enforce the mask policy.
The sergeant put Turner in handcuffs and began to take her to the police vehicle, and the woman allegedly began to struggle. She reportedly kicked the sergeant several times.
One of Turner’s children was reported as being hurt in the scuffle, and the girl was taken to the hospital to have a hand injury treated.
Turner was taken into custody, and she is facing charges for suspicion of battery on a law enforcement officer, trespassing, and disorderly conduct for the allegations.
Many of the parents felt that Turner’s actions were righteous, but it was reported that approximately half of them were in favor of the mask mandate remaining in place.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.