The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Florida teacher was accused of child abuse after a young student with autism was reportedly injured during an incident inside a classroom.
The investigation began after the child’s mother noticed marks on his body while giving him a bath. The youngster reportedly had a small puncture wound on one arm, visible bruising on the other, and scratches across his chest. Concerned about how the injuries occurred, she contacted the authorities.
The incident allegedly took place in early March at a private academy. The teacher had been working with the child since the start of the school year. The authorities said the child could understand simple directions but had difficulty expressing his needs.
Surveillance video reportedly showed the interaction inside a classroom where the teacher was supervising the child and two other students. At one point, the child was seated on the floor and was turned to face a different direction in what investigators described as an aggressive manner. Minutes later, he moved to a nearby seat and remained there without showing any threatening behavior.
The footage allegedly showed the teacher approaching from behind and pulling the child’s arms back. As the child tried to break free, he appeared to be in pain. The teacher and student then struggled, and the teacher was reportedly seen forcing the child down onto the floor, making contact with his upper body and head. According to the authorities, the teacher also allegedly held the child down, pinned one of his arms, and later pushed him as he attempted to stand.
School records reviewed during the investigation claimed the teacher was using de-escalation methods in response to the child’s behavior. The teacher’s attorney made a similar claim.
The teacher was later arrested and charged with child abuse without great bodily harm. She was taken into custody and reportedly posted bond shortly afterward.
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.